5 key games for the Timberwolves this season

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – DECEMBER 11: Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors defends against Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the Minnesota Timberwolves during the game on December 11, 2016 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)

#3. November 8 vs. Golden State

As mentioned, the Wolves will play in 25 nationally-televised games this season. This is one of them, as they’ll face the defending champion Warriors on ESPN.

The Warriors have won two championships in the past three years and have a great shot at a third as they start their second season with Kevin Durant in the fold. Like the Spurs game, this will be a tough game to win, but will provide a very nice early season test as it comes just more than a couple of weeks into the season.

The Wolves have actually matched up fairly well against the Warriors each of the past couple of years. It will be interesting to see if that trend continues, albeit with a fairly different lineup. Remember Shabazz Muhammad and Zach LaVine had big games against Golden State in recent memory but are no longer with the team.