Timberwolves Power Rankings: Tough loss blemishes perfect week

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MINNEAPOLIS, MN – FEBRUARY 3: Taj Gibson #67 of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks on before the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on February 3, 2018 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 2018 NBAE (Photo by Jordan Johnson/NBAE via Getty Images) /

3. Taj Gibson (4)

Season stats: 33.6 MPG – 12.1 PPG – 7.4 RPG – 0.8 BPG – 57.3% FG – 23.3% 3PT – 76% FT

Weekly stats: 33.8 PPG – 10.0 PPG – 6.7 RPG – 1.7 BPG – 58.3% FG – 100% FT

With Jimmy Butler and Karl-Anthony Towns dominating the scoring column this week, Taj Gibson was slightly less active in the box scores. His impact, however, remains massive on a team that has come to cherish his ‘bring your hard hat and your lunch pale’ type play.

Mr. Clean’s 9 points, 6 rebounds and 2 blocks went under the radar in the smashing of the Bucks, but he was once again the perfect super glue that keeps the stars in Minnesota together.

Next up was the Cousins-less Pelicans, and Gibson was solid again (what’s new?). He finished with 12 points, 9 rebounds and a blocked shot, including a couple of huge rim-running dunks. On this occasion, the 32-year-old takes Jrue Holiday back to school with his patented post spin move before hammering home a thunderous slam:

Ever consistent, Mr. Clean had his third game of the week with 50+ percent shooting, registering 9 points on 4-8 shooting and chipping in 5 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 blocks in the Cleveland firefight.

Gibson is a fan favorite for a reason, his hustle and energy brings life to this Minnesota team each and every night, and when the squad seems a bit flat that is a huge plus to have. Here’s to more Taj Gibson as we head into the first playoff run in over 13 years.

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