Daftly disappointing Minnesota Timberwolves 2023-24 win projections

II – Healthy season out of Karl-Anthony Towns

The Minnesota Timberwolves only got 29 games out of starting power forward Karl-Anthony Towns last season. Considering the fact that the Timberwolves won 42 games, just how much better would this team have been with 70+ games out of Towns last season?

Keep in mind that his presence is more than just what he would have contributed. He would have allowed the Timberwolves roster to have rested other players more frequently, and perhaps have avoided some minor injuries along the way. I don’t think it’s a reach by any means to factor in three more wins for the Timberwolves had Towns been able to suit up for 70+ games. (Projected 46 wins)

III – No awkward stage for Timberwolves starters to kick off this season

While it may not be easy to recollect, the Minnesota Timberwolves roster was completely unfamiliar with one another at the start of the 2022-23 NBA season. That awkward opening to the 2022-23 NBA season cost the Timberwolves a couple of wins early in the season.  Let’s split the difference, and claim one more win over last season’s totals (Projected 47 wins)

IV – Timberwolves’ young stars are entering the prime of their NBA careers

While the focus of the Timberwolves roster is clearly on the fourth season of SG Anthony Edwards, this team is bursting with young NBA talent who are entering the prime of their careers. That includes Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, Naz Reid, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker. Better players translate into better records. I don’t think it’s a stretch to expect three more wins this season based on the Timberwolves’ improved play from young stars. (Projected 50 wins)

Of course, the future will always land in speculation. But isn’t it time to be a bit more optimistic about this team? In order to realize a positive future, you have to be willing to see it first.