The Minnesota Timberwolves lost in the Western Conference Finals for two straight years. However, they are well-equipped to make an NBA Finals run. When looking at the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers, their depth stands out. Both teams can go 10 deep in their rotations and have excellent role players throughout their roster. While both teams have star power, their depth is key. Gone are the days when all teams need a big three.
This trend has been clear for the entire 2020s decade. Notably, in the 2020s, neither team in the NBA Finals has made it back, in the following season. Luckily for the Timberwolves, they have the foundation of a championship team in place.
The Wolves have the ingredients of a title team
Of course, some level of star power is needed to compete for a title, and the Wolves have that with Anthony Edwards. With the right core around him, Julius Randle could certainly be a second option on a title team. Jaden McDaniels' combination of elite defense and ability to create shots on offense make him an ideal complementary player. Rudy Gobert's defense and Mike Conley's playmaking provide needed roles in the starting lineup.
The Wolves bench provides scoring and versatility. Naz Reid, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Donte DiVincenzo highlight one of the best benches in the NBA. Overall, the Timberwolves have one of the best and most complete rotations in the league.
Unfortunately, Reid and Alexander-Walker are free agents with uncertain futures. Regardless, the Wolves have young players ready for bigger roles, including Terrence Shannon Jr. who could slide into NAW's role. 2024 lottery pick Rob Dillingham is also poised for a bigger role. He would boost Minnesota's playmaking, scoring, and guard depth. The Wolves also have the No. 17 pick, who could make an immediate contribution next year. Having their young players make an impact will be key to maintaining Minnesota's.
The Thunder specifically have shown how valuable it is to have young players playing big roles. Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren were both drafted in 2022. While these two have blossomed into star-level players, young guys can also be vital as role players. 2023 lottery pick Cason Wallace has been key to the Thunder's elite defense. They have different playstyles, but Shannon or Dillingham could have a similar level of impact as Wallace did this year.
The Wolves have built a highly balanced and deep squad around Edwards. Notably, they posted a top 10 offense and defense this past season. In today's NBA, it's balance and depth paired with star power that leads to winning. Minnesota could need to make some improvements around the edges. Nevertheless, the Wolves are ideally positioned to make their first NBA Finals appearance in franchise history.