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Minnesota Timberwolves: Don’t wig-out on Wiggins just yet…

By Jeremy Bratcher

DENVER, CO - APRIL 10: Andrew Wiggins #22 of the Minnesota Timberwolves. Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Bart Young/NBAE via Getty Images)
DENVER, CO - APRIL 10: Andrew Wiggins #22 of the Minnesota Timberwolves. Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Bart Young/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Minnesota Timberwolves, Andrew Wiggins
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – FEBRUARY 23: Andrew Wiggins #22 of the Minnesota Timberwolves walks backcourt during a game against the Milwaukee Bucks . (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /

Andrew Wiggins is primed for his best season ever for the Minnesota Timberwolves, but will fans give him a chance?

Team success begins at the foundation of an organization. For the first time in almost a decade, it’s safe to be excited about the leadership foundation of the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Personally, I believe two good hires were made this past summer in bringing in Gersson Rosas as president of basketball operations and securing Ryan Saunders as head coach. Now, it’s up to them to unlock Andrew Wiggins.

Rosas has the kind of experience and vision to lead the organization to compete in the modern NBA. Saunders has echoed that competitive intention as well. Draft strategy, free agency and even Summer League play provide some proof of this team direction quickly adopting, adapting and advancing such philosophy on the court.

The bigger tensions for team direction and potential success surround the established players currently on the roster. This is where fans tense up.

Ask fans about the Timberwolves chances next season based on individual players and you’ll find Karl-Anthony Towns draws affirming responses that are strong and secure. Bring Robert Covington into the equation and fans are excited about getting a healthy version of a 3-and-D wing that can impact the game. The feeling is similar surrounding first-round draft pick Jarrett Culver.

Then, evaluate the young talent brought in through bargain-level free agency, including the likes of Jordan Bell, Jake Layman and Noah Vonleh, and fans see rotation depth.

However, if you want to quickly divide Timberwolves fans opinions about the upcoming season, simply bring up Andrew Wiggins.

Some fans groan immediately and lament a heavy and expensive contract further weighted by a terribly low player efficiency rating, among other metrics. Other fans will elevate Wiggins athleticism and 19.4 points per game average with great optimism.

When it comes to a player like Wiggins, are fan expectations well placed or misguided?

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