Julius Randle's play will define the rest of the Timberwolves' season

After a three-game losing streak (which included three fourth quarter meltdowns), the Minnesota Timberwolves got back on track this weekend with two wins against above .500 squads. The Wolves getting back on track is paired with Julius Randle returning to his elite standards.

During the Wolves' three-game losing streak, Randle averaged 15.7 points, 7.7 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 4.3 turnovers on 33.3/27.8/72.7 shooting splits. In the past two games, Randle has averaged 19 points, 7.5 rebounds, 9 assists, and 2.5 turnovers, on 53.6/38.5/75 shooting splits.

Undoubtedly, Randle playing to his star-level standard changes everything for the Wolves. Randle's secondary shot creation and playmaking make him an ideal complement to Anthony Edwards. However, it's no secret that Randle is also inconsistent, and during the games where he's struggling, the Wolves' offense is subpar.

As the season goes on, Randle's play will in large part determine what level the Wolves can reach.

Julius Randle is essential to the Timberwolves' success

When Randle is on his A-game, the Wolves can run a lot of their offense through him as a playmaking hub. That's exactly what they did in their win over the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday. Randle recorded 12 assists, including seven assists in the fourth quarter.

Having Randle being able to take the pressure off Edwards as a creator and playmaker is a massive difference-maker for Minnesota. It makes their offense less predictable, and it gives Edwards himself more open shots. Notably, Edwards is shooting 43.6 percent from 3-point range on passes from Randle.

Big Ju's impact as a drive and kick passer is undeniable. Remarkably, no player who has attempted more than three triples off of Randle passes is shooting below 38 percent from deep range. For a team that often operates without a point guard, Randle's playmaking is vital to their success. When Randle has six or more assists, the Wolves are 8-3.

While Chris Finch has understandably referred to Edwards as the team's point guard, Randle has been the more impactful playmaker, averaging 2.1 more assists than Ant. Randle's blend of playmaking and shot creation makes him an essential part of the Wolves' success.

Simply put, when Randle is at his best, so are the Wolves, and this recent stretch is another reminder of that. Dating back to the last playoffs, Randle was dominant in the first two rounds, and the Wolves only lost two games. However, in the conference finals, Randle struggled, and Minnesota lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder in five games.

With a 12-8 record, the Timberwolves currently hold the sixth seed in the West. To maintain a top-six seed and put together another deep playoff run, the Wolves will need consistent production from Randle.