What's Happening?
The Minnesota Timberwolves are gearing up for the 2025-26 NBA season with a strong focus on improving their team defense, particularly when Rudy Gobert is not on the court. Last season, the Timberwolves allowed 107.6 points per 100 possessions with Gobert playing, but this number increased to 112 points when he was off the court. Head coach Chris Finch and personnel guru Tim Connelly are prioritizing reducing this defensive gap. The team aims to return to their 2023-24 defensive form, where they were the best in the league, allowing 2.2 fewer points per 100 possessions than any other team. The preseason will be crucial for addressing these defensive challenges and integrating new players into the rotation.
Why It's Important?
Improving the Timberwolves' defense is critical for their success in the highly competitive Western Conference. With a dozen teams having legitimate playoff aspirations, the margin for error is minimal. A strong defensive performance could be the key to securing a higher playoff seed and avoiding the play-in tournament. The team's ability to maintain defensive intensity without Gobert will be essential for sustaining their playoff ambitions. Additionally, the development of young players like TJ Shannon and Jaylen Clark will be vital in providing depth and versatility to the team's defensive strategies.
What's Next?
The Timberwolves will continue to evaluate their defensive strategies during the preseason, focusing on improving ball containment, rim protection, and rebounding. The integration of young players into the rotation will be closely monitored, with the potential for adjustments based on preseason performance. The team will also work on enhancing their transition play to capitalize on offensive opportunities. As the regular season approaches, the Timberwolves will aim to solidify their defensive identity and prepare for the challenges of the Western Conference.