Part 5/9:
As the season progresses, the Timberwolves have struggled significantly. Holding a record of 8-10 and currently positioned at the 12 seed in the Western Conference, their early struggles are highlighted by a recent game where they squandered a 12-point lead, ultimately losing to the Sacramento Kings. The team’s defensive prowess, once their hallmark, has drastically diminished. While they ranked high defensively last season, they currently sit at 12th in defensive rating.
Issues arise with the defensive contributions from key players. Gobert remains solid, but Randle’s defensive lapses have been egregious. Similarly, Jaden McDaniels, previously a reliable perimeter defender, struggles this season, contributing to the overall deterioration of the team’s defense.