Why Timberwolves Should Be Excited About Upcoming NBA Season

This summer was very eventful for the Minnesota Timberwolves, and as the regular season approaches, there's a lot to be excited about when looking at this roster. Last season saw them get defeated in the second round of the playoffs by the then-Western Conference champion San Antonio Spurs, but now they feel like they're more prepared for that matchup. 

The Timberwolves decided to trade away forwards Julius Randle and Naz Reid as the franchise began looking elsewhere to find a consistent second option for guard Anthony Edwards. Minnesota initially wanted Reid or Randle to be that second option, but instead, the front office felt like it needed another piece in the backcourt. 

LaMelo Ball changes a lot for this team offensively. He's a player who is known to be one of the most dynamic point guards in the NBA for several seasons now, and he averages over 7 assists per game in his career. 

When other teams face Minnesota in high-pressure situations, double-teaming either Anthony Edwards or Ball may not be the best idea. Both players can create for themselves, and it leaves teams in a lose-lose situation. 

Because the Timberwolves gave away two key forwards from their roster a season ago, Naz Reid and Julius Randle, it left a hole in that power forward spot for several weeks. To fix that, they signed former Golden State Warriors and Atlanta Hawks forward Jonathan Kuminga to a two-year deal.  

Kuminga has had his ups and downs in the NBA up to this point in his career, but there was mutual interest from both parties, and maybe playing on a contending team with a coaching staff that has faith in him is all he needs to have a successful tenure with the Timberwolves. 

He is known for his ability to play downhill and get to the basket, but when looking at Jonathan Kuminga's play style, his versatility matches the identity this Timberwolves team has had for several seasons under Chris Finch. 

Kuminga plays solid perimeter defense and can block shots because of his athleticism. He also has the ability to spread the floor as well and that can make for a very well rounded lineup if he is inserted into that starting role. 

The clear goal for Minnesota is to make a run to the NBA Finals, and they have invested a lot of talent and draft capital in this roster. They have multiple players who are projected to have career years, and if Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball can coexist, they can hit that ceiling.