Timberwolves News
After a set of abysmal losses to Memphis (90-68) and Milwaukee (106-88), the Wolves will be searching for a win in another match up with the Bucks tonight. The game will wrap up the team's preseason at home before heading on the road to tip off its regular season against the Lakers Oct. 28.
Wolves web writer Kyle Ratke referred to a "third quarter collapse" in his recap of Tuesday's loss, which brings back not-so-distant memories of the last couple seasons. The Timberwolves often struggle to play four consistent quarters of basketball, and it's something that will need to change if they hope to find success this season.
A few things to note from the most recent game:
- It's no surprise, but Kevin Garnett will not be relied on to score many points. I fully expect the Wolves to utilize KG most effectively (1) off the court, with his leadership and general knowledge of the game and (2) defensively. Even in his 14 minutes on the floor Tuesday, Garnett scored just two points while adding two defensive rebounds and dishing out four assists.
- Shabazz Muhammad will be a welcome return for the 2015-2016 season. After playing a large chunk of last season without Muhammad, Minnesota will benefit greatly having him back on the floor. Against the Bucks, the third-year forward scored 18 points, including going 11-for-11 from the charity stripe.
- Karl-Anthony Towns is fun to watch, and he seems to be making a fairly smooth transition into the big leagues. In six preseason games, the No. 1 overall draft pick is averaging 10.7 points and 6.7 rebounds per game. A big positive also is Towns' presence on defense for a team that has lacked sorely in that area for a number of seasons. The rookie isn't timid beneath the rim, and he recorded five defensive boards against Milwaukee.
While there's certainly more to be discussed about this intriguing roster, I'll stick to those observations for now. It's fair to say that preseason games "don't count," but it is still telling to see these types of losses before rolling into the regular season. With Flip Saunders out of the coaching seat indefinitely, it will be interesting to see how prepared Sam Mitchell is to take the Wolves forward.
Other Basketball News
NBA "Uni Watch" -- it's a thing.
I am fully entertained by this uniform watch that ESPN has put together. The site gives a central location for fans to keep an eye on alternate jerseys, design/logo changes, etc. I'm particularly a fan of the Knicks', Heat and Clippers throwback options.
NBA to retain partnership with FanDuel
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver addressed the media through a phone interview Wednesday, announcing that the league will continue its partnership with FanDuel despite multiple investigations. Concerns surrounding the daily fantasy site include the legality of its contests in regards to federal and state gambling laws. Silver said there should be a "regulatory framework" and "more transparency for consumers." According to the Commissioner, there will be heavy monitoring of the organization, but the league will not withdraw its association.
Lindsey's Friday Flick Recommendation
In the spirit of Back to the Future week and throwback films in general, I revisited a favorite 80s movie of mine early this week.
Ghostbusters
If you haven't seen this cheesy but loveable flick about three unemployed professors who start a ghost removal service and get more than they bargained for, I highly recommend it. With an all-star cast including Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd and of course Rick Moranis, you can't go wrong with this "vintage" comedy.
And, to make things better, there's a rumored 2016 remake in the works starring Chris Hemsworth and Kristen Wiig.
Check out the 1984 trailer below, and happy weekending!