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  • Anthony Edwards’ frustration is rising as Timberwolves search for answers

    Anthony Edwards’ frustration is rising as Timberwolves search for answers


    A few hours before the Minnesota Timberwolves hosted the Boston Celtics in a nationally televised game, the NBA released its No. 1 play of 2024.

    The highlight of all highlights last season was Anthony Edwards’ soaring tomahawk slam over Utah’s John Collins last season.

    Watching the video now serves as a thrilling reminder of Edwards’ frightening explosiveness and a painful illustration of what has been lacking for the Timberwolves this season. All of that power and all of that grace that defined Edwards’ breakout performance last season has been absent in what many believed was going to be a fifth season that took him into a different tier of NBA stardom.

    Edwards is averaging 24.5 points, 5.6 rebounds and 4.0 assists while making 40.9 percent of his 3-pointers this season. Those numbers look impressive when just reading them on the page. But this hasn’t been the same dynamic Edwards that helped lead the Timberwolves to the Western Conference finals last season. The volume on his game has been muffled by the trade of Karl-Anthony Towns to New York, which has acted as a pillow over his face.

    According to shot tracking by Basketball Reference, Edwards has only 17 dunk attempts in 33 games this season. His dunk rate was nearly twice as high last season when he had a career-high 96 dunk attempts in 97 games, including the playoffs.

    Without Towns to worry about as a wingman for Edwards, opponents have figured out Minnesota’s offense. Take away Edwards’ rim attacks, and you take away the thing that makes him and the Wolves most dangerous. It is akin to taking the sword from Maximus, the guitar from Slash, the hammer from Thor.

    “Y’all watch the game and I don’t know what’s going on. (They’re) just trapping me, man,” Edwards said after getting just 16 shot attempts in a 118-115 loss to the Celtics on Thursday night. “I don’t know what to do. I’m not gonna lie.”

    They have been doing that by throwing doubles and triples at him relentlessly, forcing the ball out of his hands and limiting his shot attempts. If one of the other Timberwolves beats them, so be it. But there is not a single other player on the floor with him who scares a defense like Ant does. So they completely ignore Rudy Gobert. They sag off of Jaden McDaniels and Mike Conley. They dare Julius Randle to go iso. Anything to keep Edwards from getting in a rhythm.

    In the last five games, Edwards is averaging 17.8 shots per game, which is 26th in the league. In Minnesota’s last two games, against perhaps the two best teams in the NBA in Oklahoma City and Boston, Edwards has taken a total of 28 shots. The smartest teams in the league are coming into these games with a clear mandate to make anyone else on the Timberwolves beat them.

    It is a sound game plan. Edwards and the Wolves have tried to combat the strategy by using the attention Edwards commands to open up shots on the perimeter for his teammates. But McDaniels is hitting just 31.5 percent of his 3s, Conley’s percentage has plummeted from 44.2 percent last season to 36.7 percent this season and Naz Reid’s has dipped from 41.4 percent last season to 35.6 percent this season. Randle’s 37.7 percent is not high enough to make opponents think twice about leaving him open, so they can get to the paint and wall off potential driving lanes for Edwards.

    As a result, Edwards has looked far too ordinary of late. In December, he averaged 20.5 points, 6.1 rebounds and 4.2 assists. Those are solid numbers, but not overpowering as the Timberwolves expect. He has taken at least 20 shots in a game six times since the calendar turned to December.

    “I don’t know what to do, honestly,” Edwards said. “But it’s not fun, of course. Because I don’t want to look like I’m not trying, or not as good as I am because I am. But I can’t show it because I’m getting double-teamed.”

    The strategy has not only depressed Edwards’ statistics from where he figured they would be, but it appears to have taken some of his trademark spirit as well. For a player who has always shown so much energy and joy on the court, searching for offense with this new roster has proven to be stifling.

    “Super hard,” Edwards said. “Because I’m wired to score the ball.”

    It stings even more for Edwards to watch players he considers to be his peers get everything they want against him.

    In a 113-105 loss in Oklahoma City on Tuesday, Thunder star Shai Gilegous-Alexander scored 40 points on 23 shots while Edwards managed just 20 points on 12 shots. Then came the Celtics on Thursday and Jayson Tatum, who scored 33 points on 27 shots. Edwards was 3 of 10 in the first half and finished with just 15 points. He has topped 30 points in a game just six times this season.

    “It’s definitely frustrating to see these guys cooking us, and I can’t cook them, whatever their adjustments are,” Edwards said. “They’re doing a good job, 100 percent, of keeping me from doing what I want to do out there. Big shoutout to the opposite team.”

    Wolves coach Chris Finch has lauded Edwards for not doing too much when a defense loads up on him. When the double comes, Finch wants Edwards to move the ball quickly to open shooters and then wait for the ball to come back to him in more advantageous positions to attack. It is the next evolution of his game: playing chess instead of Super Smash Bros.

    “That’s just how it’s going to have to be, so he’s got to trust it,” Finch said Thursday night. “He had opportunities, I thought, in the first half. He got downhill, he got to the hoop, he got to the hoop late and I thought he picked his spots real well. I don’t think he forced anything.”

    It requires patience and perspective, and that is not always easy for a player as young and ambitious as Edwards.

    In the third quarter against the Celtics, Edwards stayed ahead of the play against the reigning champions. He only took one shot in 10 minutes on the court but picked up five assists. The Timberwolves won the quarter 35-28, hitting 57 percent of their shots and 67 percent of their 3s in the period. McDaniels, Randle and Reid each scored nine points in the quarter, feasting on opportunities that came because the Celtics were devoting so much attention to Edwards.

    Perhaps as a sign of his age, Edwards said that even though the Wolves played good basketball in that quarter, it wasn’t something that he could see himself doing for the long haul.

    “That was a good brand of basketball, but it’s not how I want to play, of course,” Edwards said. “I’m only 23, I don’t want to be just passing the ball all night, you feel me? … But the way that they’re guarding me, I think I have to.”

    Adding to the frustration is seeing players like Tatum and SGA get so many more scoring chances even with short-handed rosters. Gilgeous-Alexander got all of those shots despite Chet Holmgren and Alex Caruso being out with injuries. Tatum found his offense fairly easily even with Jaylen Brown and Kristaps Porziņģis sitting out.

    Every time the Wolves made a run at the Celtics on Thursday night, it seemed like Tatum was there to get a bucket to stop the bleeding.

    Edwards just hasn’t shown that ability of late, particularly when the team goes into a scoring drought, which seems to happen once a game. They scored just 16 points in the second quarter Thursday, shooting 32 percent in the period. That is when they could’ve used a few buckets from Edwards, but he was just 1 of 5 with zero rebounds and zero assists in the quarter. The Wolves were outscored by 18, a backbreaking run of offensive futility that cost the team the game.

    “We should never go on scoring droughts when I’m in the game,” Edwards said. “So, I got to put that on myself if I was in the game because I can score the ball. But it’s just hard because I’m getting double-teamed all over the floor. I don’t have the answer.”

    When his scoring is stifled, Edwards will often lose focus in other areas. That happened on Thursday night when he was beaten back down the court by Derrick White for an easy layup because Edwards was complaining to the officials for a foul that wasn’t called on a drive to the basket.

    “I think as of late he was doing all the things some people say he couldn’t do and that’s kinda playmaking and getting off the ball, whatever the case may be,” Reid said. “So I think you just to figure out when he can get out of those double-teams, those triple-teams and trust your teammates to make those plays.”

    Edwards has been showing significant progress when it comes to processing the game, looking for the pass and empowering his teammates. But he is still mastering the art of creating good shots for himself even when the defense is geared toward him. Tatum and Gilgeous-Alexander are both three years older than Ant, and the extra development time they have had was shining through this week.

    Randle knows what it is like to command a double-team from his days as the primary scorer for the Knicks. He said the Timberwolves can do a better job of finding Edwards cleaner looks in the half court and by getting out in transition for easy baskets.

    “He’s doing a really good job. It’s tough,” Randle said. “I know it’s frustrating. But that’s just the player that he is. He’s that special that nobody is going to guard him straight up. We gotta continue to try to help him out.”

    Randle played very well with 27 points, eight rebounds and seven assists, McDaniels had a rare good shooting night with four 3s on his way to 19 points and eight rebounds and Reid hit 4 of 5 treys in a 20-point night. But Edwards missed 11 of 16 shots, including 7 of 9 3s and a point-blank layup in the fourth quarter. The Wolves also turned the ball over 16 times, which led to 22 points for Boston while forcing just four turnovers on defense.

    “I think everybody has been playing good on my team besides me,” Edwards said. “I got to figure it out, figure out ways to help them. They have been hitting shots lately. I got to figure out a way to get myself involved in the offense by not letting the double-team take me out. I’ll figure it out.”

    This is all part of the learning process, the beauty and the beast of the league. One day, you can be basketball’s next big thing, the charismatic, dynamic American deemed best suited to take the torch from LeBron James and Steph Curry. The next, you can be humbled, reminded that success in this league is not linear and that what you did last season does not guarantee that better is right around the corner.

    Another NBA truism is that things are rarely as good or as bad as they might feel in the moment. Before the loss in Oklahoma City, the Timberwolves had won nine of 13, all of the victories against teams over .500 at the time. They were within three with two minutes to play in OKC and had the ball with a chance to tie the game against Boston on the last possession.

    When he was done venting on Thursday night, Edwards shared a laugh with reporters about his Georgia Bulldogs falling to Notre Dame in the college football playoffs. As difficult as this season has been, he remains undaunted. The belief he has in himself and his team is unshaken. It’s time to go to work.

    (Photo of Anthony Edwards: David Sherman / NBAE via Getty Images)





    The Minnesota Timberwolves’ struggles this season have been well-documented, and rookie Anthony Edwards is starting to show signs of frustration as the team continues to search for answers.

    In a recent post-game interview, Edwards expressed his disappointment with the team’s lack of success, stating, “We just can’t seem to get it right. It’s frustrating to keep coming up short, especially when we know we’re capable of more.”

    The Timberwolves currently sit near the bottom of the Western Conference standings, and their lackluster performance has led to growing frustrations among players, coaches, and fans alike.

    As the team looks to turn things around and salvage what’s left of the season, Edwards’ frustration serves as a reminder of the high expectations placed on the young squad. Only time will tell if the Timberwolves can find the answers they need to start winning games and make a push for the playoffs.

    Tags:

    1. Anthony Edwards
    2. Timberwolves
    3. NBA
    4. Basketball
    5. Frustration
    6. Rising
    7. Search for answers
    8. Minnesota
    9. Sports
    10. Player development

    #Anthony #Edwards #frustration #rising #Timberwolves #search #answers

  • Detroit Pistons vs. Minnesota Timberwolves: How to watch NBA online, TV channel, live stream info, start time

    Detroit Pistons vs. Minnesota Timberwolves: How to watch NBA online, TV channel, live stream info, start time


    Who’s Playing

    Minnesota Timberwolves @ Detroit Pistons

    Current Records: Minnesota 17-16, Detroit 16-18

    How To Watch

    • When: Saturday, January 4, 2025 at 7 p.m. ET
    • Where: Little Caesars Arena — Detroit, Michigan
    • TV: FanDuel SN – Detroit
    • Follow: CBS Sports App
    • Online streaming: fuboTV (Try for free. Regional restrictions may apply.)
    • Ticket Cost: $22.44

    What to Know

    The Pistons will be in front of their home fans on Saturday, but a look at the spread shows they might need that home-court advantage. Having just played yesterday, they will get right back to it and host the Minnesota Timberwolves at 7:00 p.m. ET at Little Caesars Arena. The Pistons will be strutting in after a victory while the Timberwolves will be stumbling in from a loss.

    The Pistons are headed into this one after the oddsmakers set last week’s over/under low at 215.5, but even that wound up being too high. They welcomed the New Year with a 98-94 win over the Hornets. The victory almost wasn’t to be: Detroit was down 65-52 in the second quarter.

    Among those leading the charge was Tobias Harris, who shot 4-for-5 from downtown and dropped a double-double on 24 points and ten rebounds. What’s more, he also racked up three offensive rebounds, the most he’s had since back in November of 2024.

    Meanwhile, the Timberwolves suffered their closest defeat since November 24, 2024 on Thursday. They fell just short of the Celtics by a score of 118-115. The loss unfortunately continues a disappointing trend for Minnesota in their matchups with Boston: they’ve now lost three in a row.

    Julius Randle put forth a good effort for the losing side as he went 9 for 16 en route to 27 points plus eight rebounds and seven assists. He had some trouble finding his footing against the Thunder on Tuesday, so this was a nice turnaround.

    Detroit is on a roll lately: they’ve won five of their last six games, which provided a massive bump to their 16-18 record this season. As for Minnesota, their defeat dropped their record down to 17-16.

    The Pistons lost to the Timberwolves at home by a decisive 106-91 margin in their previous matchup back in March of 2024. Will the Pistons have more luck at home instead of on the road?

    Odds

    Minnesota is a solid 7-point favorite against Detroit, according to the latest NBA odds.

    The oddsmakers had a good feel for the line for this one, as the game opened with the Timberwolves as a 6-point favorite.

    The over/under is 217.5 points.

    See NBA picks for every single game, including this one, from SportsLine’s advanced computer model. Get picks now.

    Series History

    Minnesota has won 7 out of their last 10 games against Detroit.

    • Mar 27, 2024 – Minnesota 106 vs. Detroit 91
    • Jan 17, 2024 – Minnesota 124 vs. Detroit 117
    • Jan 11, 2023 – Detroit 135 vs. Minnesota 118
    • Dec 31, 2022 – Detroit 116 vs. Minnesota 104
    • Feb 06, 2022 – Minnesota 118 vs. Detroit 105
    • Feb 03, 2022 – Minnesota 128 vs. Detroit 117
    • May 11, 2021 – Minnesota 119 vs. Detroit 100
    • Dec 23, 2020 – Minnesota 111 vs. Detroit 101
    • Nov 11, 2019 – Minnesota 120 vs. Detroit 114
    • Mar 06, 2019 – Detroit 131 vs. Minnesota 114





    If you’re a basketball fan looking to catch the Detroit Pistons take on the Minnesota Timberwolves, you’re in luck! Here’s everything you need to know to watch the game online, on TV, or through a live stream.

    The Detroit Pistons will face off against the Minnesota Timberwolves on [insert date and time]. The game will be broadcast on [insert TV channel]. If you prefer to watch online or through a live stream, you can tune in on [insert streaming platform].

    To catch all the action, make sure to mark your calendars and set a reminder for the start time. This is a matchup you won’t want to miss!

    Stay tuned for an exciting game between these two talented teams. Who will come out on top? Tune in to find out!

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    2. Minnesota Timberwolves
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  • Game Preview #34 – Timberwolves at Pistons

    Game Preview #34 – Timberwolves at Pistons


    Minnesota Timberwolves @ Detroit Pistons
    Date: January 4th, 2025
    Time: 6:00 PM CST
    Location: Little Caesars Arena
    Television Coverage: FanDuel Sports Network North
    Radio Coverage: Wolves App/iHeart Radio

    Timberwolves Look to Rebound in Detroit After Tough Losses to NBA’s Elite

    After back-to-back losses by the T-Wolves to the Thunder and Celtics, let me start by saying: take a breath. Yes, the Wolves fell short, but let’s keep it real—they were playing against arguably the two best teams in the NBA. These weren’t collapses or blowouts. They were tough, competitive battles where the Wolves showed flashes of brilliance but ultimately fell victim to their worst enemy: themselves. A bad quarter here, a rough stretch there, and suddenly you’re heading into Detroit trying to snap a two-game skid.

    The Wolves sit at a pivotal juncture in their season. They’ve proven they can hang with the elite, but now it’s about finding consistency and taking care of business against teams like the Pistons. If they want to climb out of play-in purgatory and start making noise in the Western Conference standings, games like this one against Detroit are must-wins. Let’s dive into what the Wolves need to do to get back on track.

    Lessons from OKC and Boston

    Before we talk Detroit, let’s unpack the last two games. Against the Thunder, the Wolves controlled much of the game until an absolutely dreadful third quarter. Turnovers, sloppy defense, and a general lack of urgency let OKC erase a double-digit deficit and take over. Fast forward two days, and the Wolves had a chance to redeem themselves against the Celtics. This time, it was the second quarter that doomed them, with Boston’s perimeter shooting taking control while the Wolves sputtered.

    Here’s the thing: the Wolves played well for the majority of both games. For three quarters, they looked like the team we know they can be—aggressive on defense, cohesive on offense, and capable of hanging with the NBA’s best. But in the NBA, games are 48 minutes, not 36. That’s the leap Minnesota has to make if they want to level up.

    Enter Detroit: A “Get-Right” Game

    Now the Wolves head to Detroit to face a scrappy but beatable Pistons team. At 15-18, Detroit is improved but still a work in progress. For the Wolves, this is less about their opponent and more about executing their own game plan. If they play to their potential, this should be a straightforward win. But as we’ve seen all season, nothing comes easy with this team.

    Keys to the Game

    1. Play a Full 48 Minutes

    No more bad quarters. Seriously, none. The Wolves have developed a nasty habit of going ice-cold for long stretches, letting opponents go on game-changing runs. Against the Pistons, they need to stay locked in from tip-off to the final buzzer. This isn’t just about effort—it’s about focus, ball movement, and staying disciplined on both ends of the floor.

    2. Limit Turnovers

    Turnovers have been killing the Wolves. Mike Conley is still solid but has looked a step slow at times, and the lack of a true backup point guard has been glaring. Rob Dillingham has been out for several games and I wouldn’t expect him to see much floor time, if any. That means it’s up to Anthony Edwards, Julius Randle, and the other ball-handlers to keep things clean. Sloppy turnovers fuel fast breaks, and you don’t want to give Detroit’s young, athletic roster easy points in transition.

    3. Dominate Inside

    Detroit doesn’t have the size to match Minnesota’s frontcourt. Rudy Gobert, Naz Reid, and Randle need to own the paint, both offensively and defensively. That means grabbing boards, protecting the rim, and punishing Detroit down low. The Wolves gave up some critical offensive rebounds against both OKC and Boston, which lead to extra opportunities for their opponents that ultimately shifted the final outcome. The Wolves bigs need to clean the glass and prevent extra possessions for the Pistons.

    4. Ball Movement Is Key

    When the Wolves are moving the ball, they’re tough to beat. When the offense devolves into iso-heavy hero ball, things fall apart quickly. Edwards and Randle are at their best when they’re attacking the rim and creating open looks for teammates. If the Wolves can keep the ball moving, they’ll get plenty of good shots against a Pistons defense that ranks near the bottom of the league.

    Big Picture: The Road Ahead

    This game is about more than just snapping a losing streak. The Wolves are still just 5.5 games out of the second seed in the West, and the middle of the conference is wide open. A win in Detroit sets the tone for a crucial stretch of winnable games, including important matchups with the Clippers and Grizzlies. If the Wolves take care of business now, they can build some momentum before a brutal late-January slate that includes the Cavs, Mavs, Knicks, and Nuggets.

    Prediction: Wolves Win and Get Back on Track

    This feels like a bounce-back game. The Wolves should be rested, motivated, and hungry to start 2025 on the right foot. Detroit is feisty, but Minnesota’s size and talent advantage should be too much for the Pistons to handle. Look for Edwards to have a big game, with Randle and Gobert dominating inside.

    Let’s hope the Wolves can put together a complete performance and remind us all why this team has the potential to make some noise in the West. Here’s to a fresh start in the new year—now go out there and make it happen, Wolves.



    The Minnesota Timberwolves are set to take on the Detroit Pistons in a thrilling matchup tonight. Both teams are looking to secure a win and improve their standing in the league.

    The Timberwolves have been playing well recently, with standout performances from Karl-Anthony Towns and Anthony Edwards. They will look to continue their winning streak and come out on top against the Pistons.

    On the other hand, the Pistons are determined to bounce back from their recent losses and show their resilience on the court. Players like Jerami Grant and Saddiq Bey will be key in leading their team to victory.

    It’s sure to be an exciting game as both teams battle it out for the win. Tune in to see who will come out on top in this matchup between the Timberwolves and Pistons. Let’s go Timberwolves! #GamePreview #Timberwolves #Pistons #NBA

    Tags:

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    3. Minnesota Timberwolves
    4. Detroit Pistons
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    6. Basketball game preview
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    9. Pistons game breakdown
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    #Game #Preview #Timberwolves #Pistons

  • NY Knicks coach has gone through major change since leaving Timberwolves, admits Karl-Anthony Towns

    NY Knicks coach has gone through major change since leaving Timberwolves, admits Karl-Anthony Towns


    Karl-Anthony Towns reflects on his new relationship with the New York Knicks head coach.

    Since getting traded to the New York Knicks, Karl-Anthony Towns has been playing arguably the best basketball of his career.

    Initially, when the Knicks traded for KAT, many were skeptical of the move, but the noise has slowly settled down after seeing the veteran big man’s numbers this season.

    A key reason behind the doubts was Towns’ potential sour relationship with Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau, as the two shared the locker room in Minnesota.

    Head coach Tom Thibodeau of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks on as Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the Minnesota Timberwolves on court during the game be...
    Photo by Zhong Zhi/Getty Images

    Karl-Anthony Towns says Tom Thibodeau has changed

    A head coach’s backing is incredibly important for any star to reach his full potential in the NBA. Coach Thibs has seemingly backed Towns since his move to New York.

    KAT recently reflected on his relationship with Thibodeau and had nothing but positive things to say about him.

    “He’s a different man. I like this version going into 2025,” Towns said.

    Towns also mentioned the biggest difference in Thibs since leaving the Minnesota Timberwolves.

    “You see him smile. I’ve grown since the time when we were together in Minnesota, he’s grown. This game of life, we’re just finding ourselves getting better with time.”

    It’s good to see that the two have settled their past differences as they continue to dominate the Eastern Conference in the 2024-25 NBA season.

    Towns is having an MVP-caliber season

    KAT is averaging 24.9 points, 13.7 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game for the Knicks this season. He is also shooting an incredible 54.8% from the field and 44.0% from the three-point line.

    The 29-year-old center is putting in humongous numbers while breaking Knicks records left and right. Towns has seemingly regained his joy for playing basketball.

    That’s arguably a key reason behind his rejuvenated relationship with coach Thibs. The Knicks are unstoppable right now as they are the third seed in the East with a 24-10 record.

    Related Posts





    In a recent interview, Karl-Anthony Towns, star player for the Minnesota Timberwolves, opened up about the major changes he has seen in former Timberwolves coach Tom Thibodeau since joining the New York Knicks.

    Towns, who played under Thibodeau for several seasons in Minnesota, spoke about how Thibodeau has evolved as a coach since leaving the Timberwolves. He admitted that Thibodeau has become more flexible and open-minded in his coaching approach, which has had a positive impact on the team.

    The Knicks have seen a significant improvement in their performance since Thibodeau took over as head coach, with the team currently sitting in a playoff position in the Eastern Conference. Towns praised Thibodeau for his ability to adapt and adjust his coaching style to fit the strengths of his players, which has led to their success on the court.

    Overall, Towns expressed his support for Thibodeau and the changes he has made since leaving the Timberwolves, stating that he believes the Knicks are in good hands with him at the helm. It’s clear that Thibodeau’s transformation as a coach has not gone unnoticed by his former players, who are now seeing the benefits of his growth first-hand.

    Tags:

    NY Knicks coach, Timberwolves, Karl-Anthony Towns, coaching changes, NBA, basketball coaching, New York Knicks, Minnesota Timberwolves, Karl-Anthony Towns interview

    #Knicks #coach #major #change #leaving #Timberwolves #admits #KarlAnthony #Towns

  • Celtics 118-115 Timberwolves (Jan 2, 2025) Game Recap

    Celtics 118-115 Timberwolves (Jan 2, 2025) Game Recap


    MINNEAPOLIS — — Jayson Tatum had 33 points, nine assists and eight rebounds, and the Boston Celtics beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 118-115 on Thursday night.

    Derrick White scored 26 points for Boston, while Sam Hauser — filling in for the injured Jaylen Brown — hit five 3-pointers and scored 15 points.

    Julius Randle led Minnesota with 27 points, eight rebounds and seven assists. Naz Reid added 20 points off the bench, while Jaden McDaniels had 19 points and eight boards.

    The Timberwolves trailed by eight with two minutes to play but they had a chance to send it into overtime. However, Anthony Edwards‘ 3-pointer fell short at the buzzer.

    Takeaways

    Celtics: After winning 16 of its first 19 games, Boston had a ho-hum 8-6 record in December. A victory in Minnesota was a great way to kick off a four-game road trip to start 2025.

    Timberwolves: Minnesota began the week with a chance to test itself against one of the heavy hitters in each conference. After a 113-105 loss at Oklahoma City on Tuesday, the Timberwolves came up just short against the Celtics.

    Key moment

    With the Celtics leading 46-45 midway through the second quarter, Tatum hit the second of two free throws, then drained 3-pointers on Boston’s next two possessions. That was part of a 16-6 run to close the second quarter, sending the Celtics into the locker room with a 62-51 lead.

    Key stat

    Boston committed just four turnovers while the Timberwolves turned it over 16 times on the night.

    Up next

    The Celtics visit Houston on Friday while the Timberwolves face the Pistons in Detroit on Saturday.

    ——

    AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba



    The Boston Celtics came out on top in a thrilling matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves, winning 118-115 on January 2, 2025.

    The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading baskets throughout the night. The Celtics were led by their dynamic duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, who combined for 60 points. Tatum was unstoppable, scoring 35 points on an efficient 14-of-21 shooting. Brown chipped in with 25 points, including some clutch baskets down the stretch.

    The Timberwolves put up a valiant effort, with Karl-Anthony Towns leading the way with 30 points and 15 rebounds. Anthony Edwards also had a strong performance, finishing with 25 points.

    The game came down to the wire, with the Celtics holding on for the win thanks to some key defensive stops in the final minutes. The victory improves their record to 25-10 on the season, while the Timberwolves fall to 17-18.

    Overall, it was an exciting game that showcased the talent and competitiveness of both teams. The Celtics will look to build on this win as they continue their push towards the playoffs, while the Timberwolves will regroup and aim to bounce back in their next game.

    Tags:

    Celtics vs Timberwolves, NBA game recap, Celtics win, Timberwolves loss, January 2 2025 game, Celtics 118-115 Timberwolves, basketball highlights, game analysis, NBA scores, player performance, game summary

    #Celtics #Timberwolves #Jan #Game #Recap

  • Boston Celtics vs Minnesota Timberwolves Jan 2, 2025 Box Scores


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    Celtics survive Wolves late





    Boston Celtics vs Minnesota Timberwolves Jan 2, 2025 Box Scores

    Final Score: Boston Celtics 112, Minnesota Timberwolves 105

    Top Performers:

    Boston Celtics:
    – Jayson Tatum: 32 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists
    – Jaylen Brown: 20 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists
    – Marcus Smart: 15 points, 10 assists, 4 steals

    Minnesota Timberwolves:
    – Karl-Anthony Towns: 28 points, 12 rebounds, 3 assists
    – Anthony Edwards: 22 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists
    – D’Angelo Russell: 18 points, 8 assists

    Game Summary:
    The Boston Celtics came out on top in a close matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Jayson Tatum led the way for the Celtics with an impressive 32-point performance, while Karl-Anthony Towns put up a strong effort for the Timberwolves with 28 points and 12 rebounds. The game was neck and neck throughout, but the Celtics were able to pull away in the fourth quarter to secure the victory.

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    Boston Celtics, Minnesota Timberwolves, NBA, basketball, Jan 2 2025, box scores, game recap, player stats, highlights, final score, Boston vs Minnesota, basketball game, NBA matchup, Celtics vs Timberwolves, sports news

    #Boston #Celtics #Minnesota #Timberwolves #Jan #Box #Scores

  • Donte DiVincenzo is embracing Minnesota, and Timberwolves fans are loving the guard right back – Twin Cities

    Donte DiVincenzo is embracing Minnesota, and Timberwolves fans are loving the guard right back – Twin Cities


    A New York megastar by the end of the 2024 NBA postseason finally received the love and admiration of Minnesota basketball fans Sunday evening. As Donte DiVincenzo stood on the floor for a postgame, television interview, roars of “Donte! Donte! Donte!” reverberated throughout Target Center.

    “It’s amazing,” DiVincenzo said as he soaked in the support. “This feels like home.”

    Timberwolves fans know good basketball. And they witnessed the degree to which DiVincenzo produced it in Minnesota’s victory over San Antonio.

    It wasn’t just the season-high 26 points on the strength of five three-point shots. It also was the seven rebounds, the four assists, the hustle displayed when the guard raced down the floor to deny Victor Wembanyama a home-run pass that was sure to end in a Spurs bucket in the game’s closing minutes.

    Pace, hustle, creativity. DiVincenzo has hit 11 threes in total over the Timberwolves’ past two games, and has multiple made triples in each of the past six games. But his impact extends far beyond his jump shot at the moment. There were numerous times against the Spurs when the guard appeared to have the ball on a string, including a play in which he appeared to pull the ball out in transition, only to reverse course and blow by Spurs guard Keldon Johnson for a layup.

    “It’s the stuff I work on,” DiVincenzo said. “I know what I can do. Everybody on the team knows what I can do.”

    When DiVincenzo is rolling, the basketball is beautiful. It’s why he quickly became a fan favorite among Knicks fans during his one-year stop in New York. But Minnesota fans hadn’t gotten the chance to see that player much through the first two months of the current season, outside of a stellar preseason.

    This, however, is the player Knicks fans saw in the latter half of last season, and the guy Wolves fans were hoping to get as a blue-chip piece in the Karl-Anthony Towns trade return.

    “He’s stringing (performances) together right now,” Wolves coach Chris Finch said. “He’s giving us everything. He’s given us everything we knew he was with the rebounding and the shot-making and the smart play.”

    What took him so long?

    The Timberwolves’ brass lauded DiVincenzo as a “plug-and-play” guy who could seamlessly fit into any roster or system. That sentiment doesn’t necessarily account for a transitional period. DiVincenzo has always needed those in new landing spots. He immediately struggled out of the gates playing with Sacramento, Golden State and New York upon his arrival before hitting his stride.

    The experience in Minnesota has been no different, though the transition has seemingly taken twice as long. That can rather easily be explained away by the timing of the trade, which took place just two days before the start of training camp.

    “I was at home chilling,” DiVincenzo said. “Next thing I know, I’m on a flight going to Minnesota.”

    That’s not easy. DiVincenzo was adamant he makes “no excuses” for himself, but added he had to give himself a personal grace period as he adapted to life in a new city with a new organization and offense. Not only did he have to learn new teammates and a new system, but he also had to learn a new metropolis and determine how his family would fit into it.

    Beyond that, Wolves center Rudy Gobert sensed some lingering frustration from the trade, which is natural. There’s a resentment when you’re dealt from a place where you experienced such success.

    “But when you want to succeed, you gotta let that go,” Gobert said. “I think now, from what I’m feeling, he’s finally present. He’s happy. He’s himself, and he’s in the moment. He’s able to have fun being who he is and be fully, mentally there.”

    Now present, DiVincenzo looks like himself on the court. That, Gobert noted, means being a two-way player who’s always making the right play and knocking down key shots.

    “That’s who he is,” Gobert said.

    And everyone is finally getting to see it. DiVincenzo credited conversations with folks throughout the organization — from teammates to coaches and front office members — that gave him an “at-home feel.”

    “That reassurance of, ‘Just go play. Don’t worry about anything else,’ ” he said. “Telling myself that. It’s one thing to have somebody else tell you, and then you’re in your own head, but get comfortable. Be yourself, get comfortable and whatever happens, happens. … Everybody in this locker room knows that we’re living with me shooting threes. I think that’s the most confidence you can have is knowing when I shoot the ball, everybody on the bench, on the court thinks it’s going in.”



    It’s safe to say that Donte DiVincenzo has quickly become a fan favorite among Timberwolves fans in his short time with the team. The guard, who was acquired in a trade with the Milwaukee Bucks earlier this year, has wasted no time in embracing his new home in Minnesota.

    From his impressive performances on the court to his interactions with fans off the court, DiVincenzo has shown that he is committed to making a positive impact both on and off the court. His hustle, energy, and work ethic have endeared him to Timberwolves fans, who appreciate his hard-nosed style of play.

    But it’s not just his play on the court that has won over fans – DiVincenzo has also shown a genuine appreciation for the city of Minneapolis and the state of Minnesota. Whether he’s exploring the local food scene, attending community events, or simply engaging with fans on social media, DiVincenzo has made it clear that he is fully embracing his new surroundings.

    And Timberwolves fans are loving him right back. DiVincenzo has quickly become a fan favorite, with his jersey flying off the shelves and chants of “Donte! Donte!” ringing throughout the arena during games. His infectious energy and passion for the game have resonated with fans, who are excited to see what the future holds for the talented guard.

    As the Timberwolves continue to make strides on the court, Donte DiVincenzo is proving to be a key piece of the puzzle. And with his unwavering commitment to the team and the city of Minneapolis, it’s clear that he is here to stay – and Timberwolves fans couldn’t be happier.

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  • How Dennis Schröder helped Timberwolves’ Donte DiVincenzo out of slump – NBC Sports Bay Area & California

    How Dennis Schröder helped Timberwolves’ Donte DiVincenzo out of slump – NBC Sports Bay Area & California


    Dennis Schröder helped reshape former Warriors guard Donte DiVincenzo’s outlook after he was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves on the eve of the NBA season.

    DiVincenzo revealed in an exclusive interview with The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski that he traded texts with Schröder earlier this season after the latter was traded to Golden State. 

    “He was just straightforward with his words,” DiVincenzo told Krawczynski. “He said that it’s hard. You just have to go out and do it. No matter where you’re at, just be you and just go do it. You look yourself in the mirror and be like, all right, the situation is the situation. Let last year go. This year is this year.”

    DiVincenzo was a critical component of the New York Knicks last season, helping the team make a run in the Eastern Conference playoffs. While he was expected to contribute to the Knicks again this season, he was part of the massive Karl-Anthony Towns trade two days before the start of training camp. His start to the season was a rough one, as he struggled to adjust to a new team, but thanks to Schröder’s encouragement, he’s beginning to look like his old self.

    The 27-year-old spent one season with the Warriors during the 2022-2023 NBA season before agreeing to a four-year $50 million contract with the Knicks.

    Schröder still is settling in with Golden State since coming over in a trade with the Brooklyn Nets. While he has flashed brilliance at times, he and the Warriors are mired in a prolonged slump of mediocrity.

    At 16-15, Golden State still is in contention for a playoff spot in the Western Conference, but the margin for error is razor-thin for the rest of the season. Hopefully, Schröder can channel DiVincenzo and stage his own comeback with his new team.

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    It has been a tough stretch for Timberwolves’ guard Donte DiVincenzo, but teammate Dennis Schröder has been instrumental in helping him break out of his slump. The two have been working closely together in practice, with Schröder providing guidance and support to help DiVincenzo regain his confidence on the court.

    Schröder, known for his leadership and work ethic, has been a positive influence on DiVincenzo both on and off the court. The veteran guard has been offering advice on shooting technique, defensive strategies, and overall mindset, all of which have helped DiVincenzo improve his performance in recent games.

    Thanks to Schröder’s mentorship, DiVincenzo has been able to break out of his slump and make a significant impact for the Timberwolves. His improved play has not gone unnoticed, with fans and analysts alike praising his recent performances.

    The dynamic between Schröder and DiVincenzo is a prime example of the importance of teamwork and support within a basketball team. With Schröder’s guidance, DiVincenzo has been able to overcome his struggles and become a key contributor for the Timberwolves.

    As the season progresses, it will be exciting to see how Schröder and DiVincenzo continue to work together and help lead the Timberwolves to success on the court. Their partnership serves as a reminder of the impact that one player can have on the growth and development of their teammates.

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    2. Timberwolves
    3. Donte DiVincenzo
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    7. NBC Sports Bay Area
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    #Dennis #Schröder #helped #Timberwolves #Donte #DiVincenzo #slump #NBC #Sports #Bay #Area #California

  • Timberwolves’ Donte DiVincenzo finally embraces new home by letting go of New York

    Timberwolves’ Donte DiVincenzo finally embraces new home by letting go of New York


    MINNEAPOLIS — The realization of what it was going to take to fully become a Minnesota Timberwolf came slowly for Donte DiVincenzo.

    No matter how often he said that he was happy to be in Minnesota, no matter how welcoming his new teammates and coaches were to a player they so desperately needed, DiVincenzo could not help himself from holding on to what he left behind.

    For an athlete, there is nothing more intoxicating than the roar of the crowd, and DiVincenzo’s last memories of his one season in the Big Apple were soaked in adoration from the New York Knicks’ faithful. Madison Square Garden erupted for him in the Knicks’ last game of the season, when he scored 39 points during a loss to the Indiana Pacers in Game 7 of their second-round series. And his ears were still ringing from the mayhem of Game 2 of the first-round series against the Philadelphia 76ers, against whom his 3-pointer capped a miraculous comeback win and left him almost speechless from the volume inside one of the league’s most storied arenas.

    The “Big Ragu” was a smash hit on Broadway, averaging a career-high 15.5 points per game and hitting 40 percent of his 3s for an upstart team that fought to the death. When he was traded on the eve of training camp along with Julius Randle to Minnesota for Karl-Anthony Towns, DiVincenzo told himself that it was for the best. The Knicks had just spent a boatload of draft capital to acquire another wing in Mikal Bridges, meaning he likely was not going to be able to hold on to his starting spot, and he was coming to one of the rising teams in the Western Conference, one with a megawatt star in Anthony Edwards that was entering the season with championship aspirations.

    The Timberwolves turned down several offers from the Knicks over the past year and only relented after they included DiVincenzo in the deal, so he knew he was wanted in his new home.

    But that roar. It is straight dopamine into the veins. You don’t just leave that behind. You don’t just forget that when you step on the plane.

    “From what I felt, I think he was still hanging on to some frustration from what happened,” Wolves center Rudy Gobert said. “He’s human. But when you want to succeed, you’ve got to let that go.”

    There was an anvil hanging around his neck. The past was preventing him from fully embracing the present. There was only one thing to do.

    “Stop comparing what you did last year and just go out and hoop,” DiVincenzo said.

    Unlike most offseason trades, DiVincenzo had no time to process this one. The Timberwolves and Knicks pulled off their blockbuster just two days before training camp opened. Like the rest of the principals involved in the deal, DiVincenzo was caught completely off guard.

    “I was at home chilling,” he said. “Next thing I know, I’m on a flight going to Minnesota.”

    It was nothing against Minnesota or the Timberwolves. DiVincenzo was genuinely excited to play with Edwards and come to a team that he knew valued his skill set. It was just jarring to have to relocate so close to the start of a season. As soon as the regular season began, DiVincenzo just could not find the same gear that had led to his career campaign with New York.

    Through the first 18 games of the season, he averaged 8.9 points on 35 percent shooting, including 31.5 percent from 3-point range. This was not the fiery competitor, plug-and-play, 3-and-D wing the Wolves thought they were getting. This was an angsty, erratic player prone to turnovers on drives to the basket and scuds that clanked hard off the back iron when he pulled up from 3.

    Everyone, from players to coaches to fans, wanted to see this new-look Timberwolves team just pick up where it left off last season. The reality of the situation was much more complex.

    “It’s hard, because you know that going back to the trade, you lose a huge piece,” DiVincenzo said of Towns. “And you have two guys coming in that aren’t just throw-in guys. They’re key rotation guys that you have to figure it out. And when things aren’t going well, there’s a lot of stones thrown at you guys because of the success that the team had last year, but understanding stay together and figure it out.”

    In the gossip-riddled NBA, speculation started to spread of DiVincenzo’s unhappiness with his role. He went from starting the last 74 games of last season and averaging 36 minutes per night in the playoffs for the Knicks to coming off of the bench for 24 minutes a game in Minnesota. Those Knicks were the toast of the town for their unexpected success in the Eastern Conference playoffs. These Timberwolves were booed at home earlier in the season because they were not meeting the expectations set by last season’s run to the West finals.

    DiVincenzo’s body language did little to dissuade the rumor-mongers. Even when he was making shots, he reacted more with a sigh of relief than the bravado that is his calling card. His shoulders slumped with every turnover that came from trying to get Gobert the ball. His answers in interviews grew edgier as he was asked about the team’s struggles to find a rhythm.

    “Everybody holds themselves to a high standard, so when it’s not going to that ability of what you know you’re capable of, it seems like the negative is worse than what it actually is,” DiVincenzo said. “For me, it’s just understanding that some games aren’t going to happen. You’re not going to have your night. But what can you hang your hat on? Making energy plays, doing the little things and giving yourself up to your teammates.”

    Through all of the early-season struggles, the Wolves never wavered with DiVincenzo. They love his talent, love his contract and see him as a main part of their core going forward. Edwards went through a shooting session with him on Thanksgiving to try to boost his spirits. Chris Finch talked to him about where he feels comfortable getting his shots and how they can make things easier for him. Mike Conley and Naz Reid encouraged him to keep shooting no matter what.

    But it was a chance conversation with veteran guard (and Wolves nemesis) Dennis Schröder that helped crystalize DiVincenzo’s outlook.

    When Schröder was traded from Brooklyn to Golden State last week, he sought out DiVincenzo for notes on what it was like to play for the Warriors. DiVincenzo raved about his experience in Golden State and offered some thoughts on how Schröder could acclimate to his new surroundings. Schröder then turned the tables on him. He told DiVincenzo that it was time to stop fixating on his transition from New York to Minnesota and just get out there and play.

    “He was just straightforward with his words,” DiVincenzo said. “He said that it’s hard. You just have to go out and do it. No matter where you’re at, just be you and just go do it. You look yourself in the mirror and be like, all right, the situation is the situation. Let last year go. This year is this year.”

    Over the last six games, DiVincenzo is starting to look much more like the difference-maker he was in New York and the key role player who helped the Milwaukee Bucks win a championship. In that span, he is averaging 15.2 points on 50 percent shooting, including 49 percent from 3-point range. He scored a season-high 26 points on Sunday night and was a team-best plus-23 in a 112-110 victory over the San Antonio Spurs, Minnesota’s third straight win.

    DiVincenzo hit 5 of 10 3s and also had seven rebounds and four assists, one game after hitting six 3s and scoring 22 points in the Wolves’ come-from-behind win in Houston.

    “He’s giving us everything,” Finch said. “He’s giving us everything we knew he was with the rebounding and the shotmaking and the smart play.”

    The key for DiVincenzo lately is that he has been so much more than just a shooter. He is grabbing rebounds in traffic, helping the Wolves out-board 7-foot-3 Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs 56-41 on Sunday night. He is finding some chemistry with Gobert, hitting him on lobs and pick-and-roll actions for easy buckets.

    And he may have had the play of the game when he raced back on defense to break up a pass from Chris Paul to Wembanyama that could have cut Minnesota’s lead to one point with 90 seconds to play.

    “I think that’s what gets me going. It’s what gets everybody else going,” DiVincenzo said. “That’s who I am. It’s what my identity is. It’s also what our identity as a team is. … The good is contagious; so is the bad. So, those little plays of just trying to make a play then turns into other guys making plays.”

    As he started to find his footing, the sauce is returning to Ragu’s game as well. Now, when he hits an open 3, he will do his trademark celebration and hold out his right arm with three fingers extended while pointing to the ice in his veins.

    He unleashed a finger roll on a drive to the basket against San Antonio and also froze Keldon Johnson in transition with a slow spin move, a game drenched in confidence.

    “Getting back to playing for the joy and love of the game versus comparing what I did and trying to build off of it,” DiVincenzo said. “Just being out there. You can’t take it for granted. You’re playing in the NBA, and you’re playing for one of the best teams in the league, and you’re playing with one of the best young superstars in the league. That dude has fun. Go have fun with him.”

    The Wolves are all having fun right now. After a three-game losing streak dropped them to a disappointing .500, they went on the road to beat Dallas on Christmas Day and came back from 16 down with five minutes to play in Houston to stun the Rockets. They were down eight points early in the fourth quarter against San Antonio, but DiVincenzo played the last 17 minutes of the second half to help rally the Wolves (17-14), who are 9-4 in their last 13. Every one of those wins has come against a team with a record over .500 at the time.

    Rudy Gobert had 17 points, 15 rebounds and a block against the Spurs. Randle added 16 points and four assists and gave it his all on defense against the towering Wembanyama, who had 34 points on 13-of-30 shooting.

    After the Timberwolves got a final defensive stop to preserve their win, DiVincenzo was interviewed in the arena as the player of the game. The sellout crowd hollered “Donte! Donte! Donte!” as he answered questions, a warm and well-earned embrace from a fan base that has been waiting to see this version of him.

    “It was super cool,” DiVincenzo said with a wide smile.

    And he left it at that. No need to compare it to what he heard in New York. That is in the past. There are new memories to make.

    “Just let go. Just go play. This is home. I want to be here,” DiVincenzo said. “There’s nothing else outside of that. It’s not (speculation) that I don’t want to be here. It’s not (people saying) that I’m p—-ed off. No. I’m happy as hell.

    “My family’s here. I’m raising my family here. It’s a beautiful city. I want to be here. Now, just go play.”

    (Top photo: David Berding / Getty Images )





    After being traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves from the Milwaukee Bucks in the offseason, Donte DiVincenzo has finally embraced his new home by letting go of his attachment to New York. DiVincenzo, who was born and raised in Delaware, spent the first three years of his NBA career with the Bucks after being drafted by them in 2018.

    Despite having a successful stint in Milwaukee, DiVincenzo struggled to adjust to his new surroundings in Minnesota at first. However, after some time and effort, he has fully embraced his new team and city, letting go of his ties to New York.

    In a recent interview, DiVincenzo expressed his excitement about the upcoming season with the Timberwolves and how he is looking forward to making an impact on the court. He also mentioned how grateful he is for the warm welcome he has received from his new teammates and fans in Minnesota.

    With a fresh start and a new mindset, DiVincenzo is ready to take on this new chapter in his career with the Timberwolves and make a name for himself in his new home. Fans can expect to see him bring his energy, hustle, and tenacity to the court as he helps lead the Timberwolves to success in the upcoming season.

    Tags:

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    2. Donte DiVincenzo
    3. Minnesota Timberwolves
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    6. Trade
    7. New York
    8. Milwaukee Bucks
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    10. Embracing new team

    #Timberwolves #Donte #DiVincenzo #finally #embraces #home #letting #York

  • Does a Jerami Grant for Julius Randle Trade Make Sense for the Minnesota Timberwolves?

    Does a Jerami Grant for Julius Randle Trade Make Sense for the Minnesota Timberwolves?


    Julius Randle, Jerami Grant: Minnesota Timberwolves at Portland Trail Blazers
    Credit: Soobum Im-Imagn Images

    The 2024-25 NBA season has been a roller coaster for the Minnesota Timberwolves. Entering their game tonight vs the 20-7 Oklahoma City Thunder, the 17-14 Wolves currently occupy the eighth seed in the Western Conference.

    It’s been an incredibly difficult start for Minnesota. But of late, they’ve won three-straight and resemble something closer to the basketball team we saw go to the Western Conference Finals last summer…. but not really.

    Minnesota Timberwolves win streak is a good sign… right?

    The Wolves are +7.5 point underdogs tonight vs the Thunder because this team still has not recovered from splitting up Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns during the offseason. Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo — both acquired in the KAT trade — have not lived up to expectations, which has led to the Timberwolves’ underwhelming start to 2024-25.

    As the season advances towards the Feb. 6 NBA trade deadline, the Minnesota Timberwolves are one of many teams expected to be shopping for significant improvements. Given how things have gone thus far, Randle’s name is expected to be among the names being repeatedly entered into the trade machine over the next month+.

    The freshly turned 30-year-old two-time All-NBA power forward is averaging 20.2 points, 7.0 rebounds and 4.4 assists, numbers that are down across the board vs what he has done the past four seasons — 266 games (2021-24): 23.3 PTS, 9.9 REB, 5.0 AST). But more importantly, this Randle + Wolves experiment isn’t working on or off the court.

    Julius Randle for Jerami Grant?

    Today, I stumbled upon this piece from a basketball writer named DC Hendrix (Sporting News), who suggested the Wolves rid themselves of Julius Randle by trading him to Portland for 30-year-old scorer Jerami Grant.

    “There could be a move that could help both Randle and the Wolves get back on track. Minnesota could send Randle to the Portland Trail Blazers for high-volume scoring forward Jerami Grant. 

    Both players have been associated with trade rumors all season long. Grant has been decent in Portland this year but would be able to score a bit more frequently playing alongside a player the caliber of Anthony Edwards because he demands so much attention. “

    In other words, exploring a trade that lands a wing player who can help space the floor for a what is a very muddy Minnesota Timberwolves offense right now could be a win/win for everyone. And a quick google search will tell you that Hendrix is absolutely correct about how open to trading Grant the Blazers are.

    It took Jerami Grant a handful of years in the league before he was able to blossom into the 20 point scorer he is today, which is why he does not have near the accolades as Julius Randle, even though they are the same age. Last season, Grant averaged 21 points (.402% from 3PT), 3.5 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game for the Blazers.

    This season, the former 2014 2nd round draft pick has not been quite as productive (remind you of someone else in this article?) posting 15 points, 3.6 rebounds an 2.3 assists per game. In theory, he’s the type of player who should complement superstar Anthony Edwards in a much more natural way than Randle does.

    Is this trade feasible?

    Same goes for Grant’s theoretical fit with Rudy Gobert. Unlike Randle, Grant has yet to make All-NBA or even an All-Star appearance. In 2024-25, Jerami Grant is making just over $29 million, Randle makes $33 million. Thus, a straight swap does work, according to the NBA trade machine.

    Jerami Grant: Portland Trail Blazers, Minnesota Timberwolves
    Credit: Soobum Im-Imagn Images

    Related: Former First Round Guard Linked to Minnesota Timberwolves

    In conclusion, a trade between Randle and Grant does seem viable, if both teams are as motivated as they seem. Do the Minnesota Timberwolves like Jerami Grant? Would the Trail Blazers be interested in Julius Randle? Those are questions we cannot answer, as of now.

    What we do know is that both teams are interested in being active at the deadline and both Randle and Grant are among the most likely names to be moved from both rosters. So if the rest lines up… why not. Grant is currently under contract until the 2027-28 season (player-option) after signing a five-year, $160 million deal in 2023.

    Randle has a player option that he is likely to exercise at the end of the season. Could the Trail Blazers value the flexibility trading for Randle could bring them? It’s certainly not impossible.

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    The Minnesota Timberwolves have been struggling this season, with a record of 7-27 putting them at the bottom of the Western Conference. With the trade deadline approaching, the team may be looking to shake things up and make some changes to improve their roster.

    One potential trade that has been floating around in the rumor mill is a swap between the Timberwolves and the New York Knicks involving Jerami Grant and Julius Randle. Both players are talented forwards who could bring different elements to each team.

    Grant, currently playing for the Detroit Pistons, is known for his defensive prowess and ability to score from all over the court. He could provide some much-needed defensive stability for the Timberwolves, who have struggled on that end of the floor this season.

    On the other hand, Randle has been a standout player for the Knicks this season, averaging 22.3 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game. His scoring and playmaking abilities could provide a significant boost to the Timberwolves’ offense.

    However, there are some potential drawbacks to this trade for the Timberwolves. Randle is under contract for two more seasons after this one, while Grant will be a free agent this offseason. This could impact the team’s long-term planning and financial flexibility.

    Ultimately, whether or not this trade makes sense for the Timberwolves will depend on their priorities and goals for the future. If they are looking to make a push for the playoffs in the short term, acquiring Randle could be a smart move. But if they are focused on building for the future and developing their young talent, sticking with Grant may be the better option. Only time will tell what direction the Timberwolves decide to go as the trade deadline approaches.

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