Minnesota Timberwolves: 3 Bold predictions for the 2022-23 season

1. Timberwolves Win 55+ Games

A year after exceeding preseason predictions and winning 46 games, the expectations for the Timberwolves in the regular season will be understandably high. After all, they added one of the most impactful defensive anchors in the NBA to an already talented roster.

That’s partly why I think the Timberwolves will take another big leap and finish with 55 or more wins in 2022-23. Rudy Gobert’s rim protection will add another layer to what Minnesota can do, and scheme-wise, it’ll open up a world of new possibilities.

With the Stifle Tower locking down the paint and leading the way on defense, the Timberwolves will be in position to be one of the best defensive clubs in all of basketball. Of the last 21 NBA Champions, 20 finished with a top-10 defensive rating in the season they won the title.

With Minnesota’s defensive upside at an all-time high, they’ll be in an excellent position to win more regular season games by being able to get stops when it matters in close contests. Opposing guards will be smothered in the paint by Rudy Gobert’s long arms and quick feet.

And offensively, the Timberwolves still have the star power to outscore other high-octane offenses. With Karl-Anthony Towns and Anthony Edwards bringing their respective scoring prowess to the table, Minnesota will start three All-Star caliber players.

If they stay healthy, 55 wins should be a lock, even in a deep Western Conference.