Timberwolves Not Wearing Look Of Contender, Meaning More Changes Could Be On Way

The Minnesota Timberwolves entered this season swinging for the fences, but so far, it feels more like a foul tip.Julius Randle, Timberwolves, Wolves, NBA, Raptors

Trading Karl-Anthony Towns for Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo was a bold move meant to shake things up.

Well, consider things shaken. At 11-10 and sitting in the Western Conference’s 10th spot, they’re flirting with mediocrity, even with a three-game win streak giving fans a reason to breathe easier.

But let’s be honest — the fit hasn’t been pretty. Randle’s playing style? A bit like trying to mix oil and water with Minnesota’s offense. He’s still doing the whole “ball stops here” thing, and when you pair that with a shaky 3-point shot, it’s no wonder the offense looks disjointed.

Anthony Edwards has had to work harder to create his own looks, and that’s not exactly maximizing the young star’s potential.

DiVincenzo hasn’t been the spark plug many hoped for, either. Instead, he’s been tossed into a playmaking role that doesn’t seem to suit him.

His 3-point shot, a supposed strength, hasn’t been reliable, and his confidence seems to be taking a hit. The Wolves didn’t bring him in to be a question mark, but here we are.

With the trade deadline looming, plenty of execs around the league are betting the Wolves won’t just sit on their hands, per Brian Windhorst and Tim Bontemps of ESPN.

Moving Randle already feels like it’s on the table, especially if they can find a better complementary piece for Edwards and Rudy Gobert. Minnesota can’t afford to tread water in a brutal Western Conference. The Play-In Tournament might save jobs, but this roster? It doesn’t scream contender right now.

If the Wolves don’t make some noise soon, expect them to be at the center of trade rumors by February. The clock’s ticking.

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