Checking on the Timberwolves’ progress since the All-Star break

Clearly, defense has been the main issue for the Wolves recently, just as it has been all season. The team has allowed 112.2 points per game on average over the past 13 games. They have been out-rebounded numerous times and they have not done one of the things that they did well earlier in the season: force turnovers. (This, of course, can be traced at least in part to the absence of Butler.)

Over the past 13 games, the Wolves rank just 29th in the league forcing 6.5 steals per game. Their average on the season has been 8.3 steals per game which is sixth in the NBA. Their ability to force turnovers has been their spark on defense, and without that skill at their disposal, the defense is otherwise easily exposed.

It was only two weeks ago that the Wolves defeated the Warriors. Check out just how good this defense can be:

As for the team’s recent defensive rating, their rating of 111.6 ranks 25th in the league since the All-Star break. A key reason for their low rating has been the team’s inability to rebound, which has led to second-chance points.

In fact, over the past 13 games the Wolves are 28th in the league allowing 14.8 second chance points per game. With their best defender out it is vital for the Wolves to limit their opponents possessions to prevent allowing, in this case, 15 extra points per game.