Minnesota Timberwolves game preview: Oct 27 vs Oklahoma City Thunder

Minnesota Timberwolves game preview: Oct. 27 vs Oklahoma City Thunder

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - OCTOBER 24: Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts to a call during the game against the Indiana Pacers on October 24, 2017 at the 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) /

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MINNEAPOLIS, MN – OCTOBER 20: Jimmy Butler #23 of the Minnesota Timberwolves controls the ball against the Utah Jazz during the game on October 20, 2017 at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Timberwolves defeated the Jazz 100-97. 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) /

Player to Watch: Jimmy Butler

Nothing has shown the value of Jimmy Butler thus far quite like his absence in the past two games. The defense has absolutely collapsed without the star wing.

While Butler’s numbers (13.3 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 4 apg, 2 spg) don’t jump off the page, his leadership on both sides of the court are invaluable.

In the first matchup with the Thunder, Butler hit some big shots late and provided terrific defense against the big three of Oklahoma City. In 39 minutes, Butler had 15 points, six rebounds, and six assists while turning the ball over just once.

While Jimmy is the player to watch, it’s really his effect on the defense as a whole that we’re most concerned with.

If nothing changes with the Wolves defense with Butler playing, this team could be in real trouble defensively this season.

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