Timberwolves' stellar summer league play should scare opposing teams

The Minnesota Timberwolves finished their scheduled portion of the NBA Summer League with a perfect 4-0 record. Most recently, the Wolves won while mounting a double-digit comeback against the Phoenix Suns with Terrence Shannon Jr. sidelined. Rob Dillingham poured in an excellent all-around game with 23 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists. They are now well-positioned for one of the four summer league playoff spots. Point differential will be the deciding factor, so it’s unclear if the Wolves will secure one of these spots.

Nevertheless, this year’s summer league has given Wolves fans plenty of reason for optimism about their young talent. While Wolves fans should be delighted by the success, opposing fans and teams should be concerned, given how good Minnesota already is.

The Wolves' young core has been impressive

Terrence Shannon Jr. (22.7 ppg) and Rob Dillingham (17.2 ppg) have led the way for Minnesota. Both second-year players are primed for bigger roles this upcoming season. Shannon’s athleticism, three-level scoring, and defensive energy will be vital to the Wolves. As will Dillingham’s speed, dynamic playmaking, and scoring. Additionally, both players have shown more of their all-around games, with Shannon demonstrating more playmaking and Dillingham displaying improved defense. 

Outside of Shannon and Dillingham, third-year forward Leonard Miller and Joan Beringer have put together quality summer league campaigns. Miller is averaging 17 points and 8 rebounds. As a versatile defender and play finisher, Miller has impressed. Beringer is averaging 6.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks. He has shown an incredible combination of rim protection and switchability on defense. Offensively, Beringer’s ability to catch and finish lobs has made him impactful. The 18-year-old big man appears to be more NBA-ready than many anticipated. 

While Jaylen Clark’s offensive numbers haven’t been stellar, he is making a positive impact as a perimeter and wing defender, constantly hounding the opposition. Furthermore, he poured in 13 points, including three triples, in the Wolves' win over the Suns. Clark hasn’t made an impact that jumps off the page, but he’s been playing at a high level nonetheless. 

Looking ahead

Shannon, Dillingham, and Clark will all be key contributors in the Wolves' rotation. Miller could also see some increased minutes. Beringer certainly isn’t far from playing real minutes. The Wolves have just made two straight Western Conference Finals. They are poised to continue this success and have a sustainable young core around Anthony Edwards, who is just 23 himself.

It's rare for elite teams to also be this good in summer league play. The idea that this Wolves team can still level up should scare opposing teams across the league. All of the Wolves' young summer league players fit nicely alongside Edwards while providing different skill sets.

Along with these young studs, proven players Jaden McDaniels (24) and Naz Reid (25) are also key long-term pieces for the Wolves. Ultimately, the summer league should be a reminder that the future is bright in Minnesota.