The Minnesota Timberwolves have at least one new starter going into the 2017-18 season. For now anyways.
What a night for the Minnesota Timberwolves organization and their fan base. Tom Thibodeau pulled off the trade one year in the making, but only this time it did not involve the centerpiece everyone expected, Ricky Rubio.
Fan favorite Zach LaVine was sent packing to the Bulls along with last years fifth overall pick Kris Dunn, as well as the draft rights to seventh overall pick Lauri Markkanen, the polished stretch-four out of Arizona. In return, the Wolves received all-star Jimmy Butler as well as the draft rights to the 16th overall pick Justin Patton, a true center from Creighton.
The Timberwolves now have another veteran back-court presence in Butler to join Rubio (for now). This will add more balance to the defensive side of the ball while maintaining offensive production. Even with the trade, it is quite clear to see the Timberwolves starting five as it stands right now before free agency begins.
Point Guard- Ricky Rubio
As long as he is here, he is a starter. Not many people would believe that the Wolves first blockbuster trade wouldn’t involve Rubio. Coming off the best year of his career, Rubio is the type of pass-first player that makes everyone around him better. With Towns, Wiggins, and now Butler amongst his targets, Rubio should easily rack up double-doubles this upcoming season.
Shooting Guard- Jimmy Butler
With this position comes many emotions. As most people expected LaVine to have this spot on lock for years, Thibs made an upgrade. Butler brings just as much offense as LaVine would, however, offers more defensively. ESPN stats and info tweeted that the last time Butler was with Thibs (2014-15), he won most improved player, made his first all-star team and was named second-team all defense. I can see why many Bulls fans out there are Irate….
Small Forward- Andrew Wiggins
Andrew Wiggins has taken a step in the right direction each year since his rookie year as he is creeping closer to stardom. Who else remembers that streak last season of 20 plus games with at least 20 points? That stat comes from a player who’s shot is still a work in progress. Scary. Look for his shot and defense both to come along a little more.
Power Forward- Gorgui Dieng
It was clear that Dieng was in the long-term plans of the Wolves when he signed his four-year extension in the fall. He’s a big man with a little bit of everything. First, he’s a winner. Do not forget that Dieng was a big part of Louisville’s 2013 title run. He can battle with the big boys down low as well as be able to use his athleticism to guard them out of the paint. He also has a soft touch around the rim and a nice finish to his shots. He’s not flashy, but Dieng is the type of player this team needs.
Center- Karl-Anthony Towns
Like anyone else could be expected? Realistically you could position swap Towns and Dieng, however, Towns fits today’s standards for an NBA center better. He’s a tall, athletic player who can beat you with his outside shot or beat you off the dribble. Oh yeah, he can post up pretty good too. You’re a special talent when in year two you become your teams single-season scoring leader AND become the first to score 2,000 points, grab 1,000 rebounds, and hit 100 threes in a season.
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Just like many of these young timberpups, Towns must become more lock down on defense. If he can do that while keeping up his scoring, he’s an MVP candidate.