Wolves have a trait that sets them apart from their Western Conference counterparts

Are the Minnesota Timberwolves true title contenders? That's been the question hanging over the Wolves all season long. As it stands, the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs are head and shoulders above the rest of the NBA. On the other hand, the Wolves are in a jumbled mix of "fringe contenders" with the Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Lakers, and Houston Rockets. 

If you'd like to argue that the Rockets are slipping out of this tier, I think that's fair. In any event, I believe that the Wolves' versatility and ability to win multiple styles of games set them apart from this group.

According to Cleaning the Glass, the Wolves rank 12th in offensive rating and sixth in defensive rating. However, throughout the year, they've mostly been top 10 in both key categories. It's been this two-way balance (and the brilliance of Anthony Edwards) that won't let me give up on the Timberwolves as contenders despite the highs and lows of this season. 

The Timberwolves' two-way balance and versatility make them different from other fringe contenders

This two-way balance is a stark contrast when compared to the Lakers and Nuggets, who rank 17th and 21st in defensive rating, respectively. These two teams win by outpowering you on offense, whether it's through the first 43 minutes or superior clutch time execution.

Regardless, it's fair to wonder if they can get stops when it matters most, and if it's a cold shooting night, they might be doomed. 

On the surface level, the Rockets have the necessary two-way balance to contend for a championship. They rank ninth in both offensive rating and fourth in defensive rating. However, the Rockets rank in the bottom 10 in clutch time offense and defense. Furthermore, they rank within the bottom five for 3-point makes and attempts. 

Simply put, if the Rockets can't out-physical you and win in a blowout, their path to winning is slim.

Unlike their Western Conference counterparts, the Wolves can win in multiple ways. Whether it's 3-point shooting, beating teams up with physical defense, attacking the rim, forcing turnovers, or winning in the clutch, Minnesota can do it all. This mixture makes the Wolves a challenging first round matchup for whoever they play. Likewise, it gives them a chance to beat one of the Western Conference heavyweights. 

With that being said, the Wolves will need Jaden McDaniels to be at 100 percent come playoff time. He is essential to their versatility and success on both ends of the court. Thus, the Wolves won't hold this same advantage without him. 

All in all, though, the Wolves' versatility and ability to win playing multiple styles could set them apart in the Western Conference.