If there's been one problem for the Minnesota Timberwolves other than their point guard play, it's shockingly been their defense. Yes, it's a small sample size, but the Wolves rank 28th in defensive rating. This is shocking, as the Wolves had the sixth-best defense last season and the best the year before that. Additionally, this team is filled with length and impactful defenders. Minnesota will certainly look to restore this vital part of its identity.
The Wolves' poor defense has been on display in both of their losses in this young season. Minnesota has often missed rotations and looked out of sync overall. However, their biggest problem has arguably been defending the point of attack. Luka Dončić went off for 49 points last Friday, and then on Monday, Jamal Murray dropped 43.
Head coach Chris Finch even bluntly said he's very concerned about the Wolves' defense. And given how poorly they have played on that end of the court, he should be.
“Very concerned about it right now. We have been extremely inconsistent defensively.” — Finch
— Jon Krawczynski (@JonKrawczynski) October 28, 2025
Luckily, the Wolves' defense is more solvable than their point guard problem. Undoubtedly, Jaylen Clark is one player who will play a big part in turning around the defense, especially with Anthony Edwards sidelined.
Jaylen Clark can help solve the Timberwolves' defense
Clark was also absent from Monday's game, but it doesn't seem like a long-term injury. His presence was undoubtedly missed against the Denver Nuggets. Jaden McDaniels was left as the only point of attack defender on Murray.
McDaniels is having a fantastic season; he's averaging 16 points and is showing more aggression offensively. He has been amazing as a help-side defender, averaging 3.5 stocks. However, McDaniels has uncharacteristically struggled at the point of attack. Murray shot 66.7 percent against him, and Luka shot 85.7 percent.
In my opinion, McDaniels is simply being overtaxed as a POA defender. That's where Clark comes in. Clark has averaged 15 minutes this season, and he regularly guards the opposing team's best player. Without Edwards, I would give Clark at least 20 to 25 minutes, and I think that's a realistic expectation.
Clark has been by far the Wolves' best perimeter defender, holding opponents to 33.3 percent shooting. Playing Clark next to McDaniels more would allow Jaden to roam off the ball and could help solve some of their defensive issues. Keeping both these players off the court would be optimal without Gobert. And when McDaniels is off the court, Clark needs to be on the floor.
In addition to being an elite on-ball stopper, Clark has incredible hustle and energy, which could help give the Wolves' defense a needed spark. Overall, I expect Finch to lean on Clark more, and if the Wolves' defense gets back on track, Clark will likely play a big role.