Minnesota on the Mend?
The Timberwolves cashed in this off-season with the major acquisition of Rudy Gobert. Many believed the team could capitalize on the scoring prowess of Anthony Edwards and Karl Anthony-Townes and move up the pecking order in the Western Conference with a defensive nightmare in Rudy G.
Gobert does not add much offense to Minnesota, but he is grabbing 12.6 rebounds per game. Minnesota is playing much better than they were early in the season, but it's hard to know if this trend will continue.
Anthony Edwards leads the team with 22.1 ppg, shooting 45.6 % from the field. Karl Anthony-Townes is not too far behind, averaging 21.5 ppg and shooting 51.6% from the field.
Minnesota ranks 11th in defensive efficiency, allowing 111.7 points per 100 possessions. They have a reputation for a poor defensive team, but this is a good sign for the Timberwolves. Gobert's defensive presence should help with their efficiency and rebounding against a high-flying, offensive Pacers team.
The T-Wolves also have the fourth highest consistency rating. This means they are one of the most predictable teams. I like to handicap consistent teams, because they are reliable in terms of court performance. The Brooklyn Nets have the 29th rated consistency rating, which was on full display in their embarrassing loss to a Sixers team without all three of its stars last night.Â
