From last season to now, it is clear the Minnesota Timberwolves are going through some growing pains. Beyond the obvious impact of recent roster changes, Wolves fans might be feeling restless as the hype surrounding another season has yet to gain momentum.
Starting the season outside playoff contention in a highly competitive Western Conference wasn’t the first month anyone had hoped for. However, despite these early challenges, here are three reasons why Wolves fans should stay optimistic and gear up for a potential turnaround in 2025.
The Rob Dillingham show is on the way
In today's microwave society where everyone is starving for the next big thing, it’s easy to understand why fans are anxious to see the 2024 eighth-overall pick Rob Dillingham log significant minutes early in the season.
However, this is a good problem for Minnesota to have. The Timberwolves' backcourt features a 17-year veteran in Mike Conley, a reliable three-and-D wing in Donte DiVincenzo, a tenacious defender in Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and the ever-dynamic Anthony Edwards, who needs no introduction.
There’s no reason to rush Dillingham into heavy action so soon. Doing so often leads to a player being thrust into a role before they’re fully ready, resulting in a product that still needs time to develop.
The second unit should only improve
While there’s no question about Dillingham’s ability to score effortlessly against any matchup, his size can create defensive mismatches that others on the team don’t face. His unique offensive skillset is unmatched and will undoubtedly become a vital asset off the bench as the season unfolds. For now, patience is key—his time will come as the season goes on.
Speaking of Dillingham, he’s far from the Wolves' only weapon off the bench. The one-two scoring punch of Rob Dillingham and reigning Sixth Man of the Year Naz Reid adds a dynamic element the team lacked last season. Addressing the guard play behind Mike Conley was a top priority for the front office, as the Wolves struggled to maintain offensive rhythm whenever Ant was resting.
Joining Dillingham and Naz in the second unit is Donte DiVincenzo. While his shooting struggles have slowed his start in Minnesota, there’s hope that he’ll find his groove in the second half as he settles into his role. Despite these early challenges, Wolves fans can take solace in the depth and firepower of the second unit, which offers a variety of scoring and playmaking options to keep the offense humming.
The NBA Play-In exists
Although the Play-In tournament is not the typical gift you'd seek as a fan, something is better than nothing. Just a few years ago, the Boston Celtics went from the 10th seed in the Eastern Conference to the NBA Finals—a testament to how quickly things can turn around in the NBA. Why does this matter? Because in this league, anything is possible.
Currently, the Timberwolves are just outside of play-in contention. Recent history shows us how unpredictable the postseason can be. Look no further than Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat's remarkable playoff run in 2023. Despite losing their initial play-in game, they defied the odds and advanced all the way to the NBA Finals before falling to the Denver Nuggets in five games.
For Timberwolves fans, this should be a reminder that the story is far from over. With the season only a quarter complete, there’s plenty of basketball left to play, and the opportunity for a turnaround is still within reach. Now is not the time to lose faith.
As the season of giving approaches, fans everywhere can look forward to seeing a refreshed and re-energized Wolves team as the year progresses. Integrating new players into a new system inevitably brings challenges, but it also paves the way for growth. Get ready for an exciting, elevated brand of basketball from Minnesota as we head into 2025.