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Minnesota Timberwolves lose to Chicago Bulls, 3 takeaways

By Dylan Jackson

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - FEBRUARY 24: Zach LaVine #8 of the Chicago Bulls fouls Jarred Vanderbilt #8 of the Minnesota Timberwolvesas he tries to shoot at the United Center on February 24, 2021 in Chicago, Illinois. 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 Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - FEBRUARY 24: Zach LaVine #8 of the Chicago Bulls fouls Jarred Vanderbilt #8 of the Minnesota Timberwolvesas he tries to shoot at the United Center on February 24, 2021 in Chicago, Illinois. 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 Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /
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The Minnesota Timberwolves lost a competitive, overtime game to the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday night after a hard fought game by both Karl-Anthony Towns and Malik Beasley.

86. 133. 24. Final/OT. 126

The Minnesota Timberwolves dropped their sixth straight game on Wednesday after losing to a Bulls team that currently sees themselves in the Eastern Conference playoff picture.

Takeaway #1: Karl-Anthony Towns has a coach that knows how to maximize his skill.

Karl-Anthony Towns touches the ball almost every time the Timberwolves are in the half-court – which is much needed for a team that has not fully utilized their star this season. The off-ball motion has been stellar under head coach Chris Finch, as well.

Minnesota has impressed in terms of ball-movement in general, a lot of which has been generated from the elbow touches that Towns has been getting. Hopefully this aspect remains a huge part of the game plan.

Takeaway #2: Josh Okogie might be regressing.

Josh Okogie has taken a huge step back in play so far this season. He is getting less minutes per game (and is less effective on both ends of the floor). Okogie’s decision-making has been questionable (and that’s being generous), and his defense has taken a substantial step back.

Okogie is still a rotation player, yes, but don’t be surprised if Jarrett Culver begins to see minutes in his place as he returns from injury.

Takeaway #3: Jarred Vanderbilt is legit.

The Minnesota Timberwolves may have found a really solid rotational forward in Jarred Vanderbilt. Yes, he can’t do much outside of defend and rebound – but he doesn’t really have to do anything extra. So long as he is able to make open layups, his energy is much needed next to players such as Towns and Naz Reid.

Vanderbilt was a throw-in in the Malik Beasley trade last season, but has proven to be the best forward (rather than Hernangomez) acquired in that deal.

Next. Wolves fire Saunders, hire Chris Finch as coach. dark

The Minnesota Timberwolves next game is against the Wizards in Washington, D.C. We have you covered for game coverage, so check back on Saturday!

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