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Minnesota Timberwolves free agency: Areas of Needs

By Andrew Neururer

Dec 13, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Jimmy Butler (21) and guard Dwyane Wade (3)attempt to steal the ball from Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) during the second half at the United Center. Minnesota defeats Chicago 99-94. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 13, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Jimmy Butler (21) and guard Dwyane Wade (3)attempt to steal the ball from Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) during the second half at the United Center. Minnesota defeats Chicago 99-94. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 22, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Jimmy Butler (21) dribbles the ball against the Detroit Pistons during the first half at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 22, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Jimmy Butler (21) dribbles the ball against the Detroit Pistons during the first half at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Defense

Minnesota was one of the worst defensive teams in the NBA. According to NBA.com, the Wolves had one of the worst defensive ratings – finishing 26th in the league, posting a 109.1. This means that they give up on average for the entire season 109.1 points a game per 100 possessions.

This is not out of the ordinary for young players to struggle defensively in the NBA. It doesn’t help that they have so many young players on the roster.

As we’re all familiar by now with the trade that sent Butler to the Wolves. Specifically, Butler is a great defender and is a major upgrade on that side of the ball.

Zach LaVine was not known for his defense as he was for his ability to score the ball. Furthermore, adding Butler helps not only the team defensively but the possibility for him to teach the younger players as well.

Butler will be suited as the leader of this squad as he used to play for Thibs. Helping the younger guys what is to be expected on plays and show them the ropes.

This is why the Wolves defensive need in free agency ranks third, due to the fact of the addition of Butler.

Just because you add a talented star like Butler who can play both sides of the ball, doesn’t fix all your problems on defense – it only improves it.

They have a few options on the market that could possibly help the team defensively. Those could possibly be Taj Gibson, Tony Snell, Luc Mbah a Moute, Tony Allen, PJ Tucker, and other. Not necessarily saying every defensive free agent or on this list, the Wolves will target, but, they are intriguing options that should be thought about.

Obviously, with money being a big thing and trying to get a lot more for your buck than just one player, the Wolves could be seen targeting Tucker and Gibson the most. As I did explain in my article about five possible free agents Minnesota should sign, I list those two players and give an in-depth look at why.

Mbah a Moute did have a stint with the Wolves, and with the inability to really shoot the ball – he could come cheap. A player like Snell could cost more seeing that he is only 25 and shot the ball at a 40 percent rate. Shooting and defense are something the team needs badly, but like I did say, he may cost more. But, the Wolves should definetly take a look at him because his ability to guard multiple positions and shoot the ball.

There are plenty defensive players on the market that won’t cost you upwards of $15 million. Look to see the Wolves add a player or two that will come in and play the defensive role.