3 surefire events, 2 surprises that may happen in Wolves-Lakers Play-In match up

Surprise I: Either Nickeil Alexander-Walker or Wendell Moore Jr. will play a huge role in this one

Without the presence of Jaden McDaniels, the Minnesota Timberwolves will need to find a hot defender off the bench. Fortunately, the Timberwolves have two options, either veteran wing Nickeil Alexander-Walker, or rookie Wendell Moore Jr.

As it now stands, I’m truly torn on which way Minnesota Timberwolves will go in this one. While the team used Nickeil Alexander-Walker in the season finale, Wendell Moore Jr. has flashed serious chops in a defensive role for the Timberwolves in the past as well. And let’s face it, the Timberwolves may run a tight rotation, but at some point, the team has to give both NAW and Moore their shots to shine in this one.

Nickeil Alexander-Walker has been a pleasant surprise since he arrived from the Utah Jazz. As a contributor in 23 games, he has averaged 15.5 MPG, 5.9 PPG, 1.8 RPG, and 1.4 APG. He has also generated 0.3 SPG and 0.3 BPG, all the while shooting an impressive 36.1 percent from the perimeter.

Wendell Moore Jr. has been a solid rookie contributor, appearing in 29 games with two starts, averaging 5.3 MPG, 1.4 PPG, 0.6 RPG, 0.6 APG, 0.3 SPG, and 0.2 BPG. While he has had a minor role for the Timberwolves this season, he has flashed NBA defensive brilliance at times, and the Timberwolves may need that defense in the NBA Play-In Tournament.

A huge shock would be the Minnesota Timberwolves putting both Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Wendell Moore Jr. into this one. That’s going too far, right? Or . . .  is it?