Timberwolves still have championship-level strength few teams can hope to match

Despite making back-to-back conference finals runs, the Minnesota Timberwolves always seem to be forgotten when talking about true title contenders. I get it, this roster isn't perfect, and there have been some concerning signs throughout the season. Still, the Wolves have an impressive 25-13 record (fourth in the West), and they check some crucial boxes of title contention.

One clear strength that the Wolves have is their scoring versatility and balance. Yes, their bench production (outside of Naz Reid) has been minimal. Regardless, the Wolves' top six is loaded with scorers and overall talent, which makes them a difficult matchup. Per Cleaning the Glass, Minnesota ranks sixth in offensive rating.

Of course, this is led by Anthony Edwards, but Julius Randle is an elite second option and creator. Beyond this, Jaden McDaniels is enjoying a career season, and Rudy Gobert is still playing at a high level. Donte DiVincenzo and Naz Reid are two fantastic shooters and sparkplugs.

Thursday's win over the Cleveland Cavaliers is the perfect example of how dangerous this Wolves team is. Four players (Edwards, Randle, McDaniels, and DiVincenzo) all scored 20-plus points. When the Timberwolves get balanced scoring like this, they're a legitimate matchup nightmare.

The Timberwolves' balanced scoring is a clear advantage

Edwards and Randle provide the star-level shot creation that's needed for a championship-level team. Regardless, the Wolves' supporting cast ensures that you can't "send the house" on Edwards or Randle. Gobert is typically considered the weak point of the Timberwolves' offense. I get that he's not elite on offense; however, Gobert is shooting a career high (and league leading) 72.7 percent from the field while averaging a respectable 11.3 ppg. Additionally, Gobert is still playing at a Defensive Player of the Year level.

McDaniels' breakout season undoubtedly changes the Wolves' upside. He is averaging 14.9 points, on 51.6/42.4/83.9 shooting splits, and gives the Timberwolves dependable tertiary creation, elite finishing, and spot-up shooting. Speaking of spot-up shooting, DiVincenzo and Reid are two knockdown shooters.

With Edwards, Randle, McDaniels, and Gobert, the Wolves can beat teams in the interior. At the same time, with Edwards, DiVincenzo, Reid, and McDaniels, this team can overwhelm opponents with its shooting.

Ultimately, Minnesota's top six gives the team balanced and versatile scoring. The Timberwolves also rank sixth in passes made per game; their blend of balanced scoring and ball movement is a clear recipe for success in a playoff setting.

As currently constructed, the Wolves are a dangerous playoff team. However, they could still pull off a trade at the deadline to upgrade their depth or even give them a true starting point guard. All of this is to say that the Wolves are set up for another deep playoff run.