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Minnesota Timberwolves: 5 goals for the rest of the season

By Adam Ziobrowski

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - DECEMBER 10: The Minnesota Timberwolves huddle before the game against the Dallas Mavericks on December 10, 2017 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - DECEMBER 10: The Minnesota Timberwolves huddle before the game against the Dallas Mavericks on December 10, 2017 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
(Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

4. Increase Bench Production

Sticking with the bench theme, they need to step up their game in order for the Wolves to be contenders.

Again, it is hard to do when as a unit you average 13 minutes per game. As we’ve also seen with Crawford, frustration may grow from that.

However, Crawford has the veteran mentality needed for this bump in the road.

Even still, the bench is ninth in 3-point percentage, shooting nearly 37 percent. They are also 11th in field goal percentage, shooting 45 percent.

So, where’s the issue? The answer has to come from Tom Thibodeau. It is, after all, his decision to when and how often he turns to the bench.

Could it be a lack of confidence in the bench as a unit? Is it overconfidence in his starters with no fear of wear and tear? Or maybe it could be the 22nd ranked -1.9 plus-minus.

No matter how you spin it, the Wolves bench has not been a factor. In order for them to stay relevant in the West, this needs to change, clearly.

Much should change when Bjelica returns from his injury. In 18 games, he had been the co-spark plug off the bench along with Crawford. Bjelica has shot 58 percent from the field and 51 percent from three this season. He’s another man who deserves more minutes, not only because of his individual production but also to relieve the starters.

The bench picking up production is as crucial as it is obvious. However it happens, it needs to happen. It will give the Wolves a much-needed spark in one area of concern. It will also help them be taken more seriously as contenders.

Hopefully, this stat opens some eyes and sparks a turnaround….

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