Minnesota Timberwolves 2017-18 Staff Predictions
As the dawn breaks on a new NBA season, the Sporting Sota staff makes some predictions for the 2017-18 Minnesota Timberwolves.
This is one of the most highly anticipated Minnesota Timberwolves seasons in recent memory. With a much improved roster headlined by Jimmy Butler, the Wolves have the talent and ability to snap a long playoff drought. One that’s stuck with the team since 2004.
Before the season kicks off Wednesday night, the Sporting Sota staff cobbled together some predictions on the Wolves’ upcoming campaign. So, let’s get to it, starting with our bold predictions for the season!
Bold Prediction
Collin Kottke: The Timberwolves will upset the Golden State Warriors in the Western Conference playoffs. Let’s face it, someone has to defeat the Warriors at some point, so why not the Wolves? I’m not betting the house on this happening, but it’s going to happen someday, so I might as well go out there and say it now. Don’t let me down, Wolves.
Jake Anderson: The Wolves make it to the Western Conference Finals. This is exactly what it’s suppose to be. A BOLD prediction. Is it likely? No. Is it possible? Yes. The only team I see that’s far better than the Wolves in the West is the Warriors, so they have a chance to make some noise in the playoffs if they get there. This outcome largely depends on the positive development of Towns and Wiggins, an improved defense and a productive bench.
Travis Young: Timberwolves win their first round playoff match-up over the Rockets.
Leo Wieffering: Wolves make significant improvements in team defense with defensive specialist Jimmy Butler leading the way, taking huge steps in becoming a complete team. Andrew Wiggins proves he is worthy of his 148 million dollar contract and makes his first All-Star game after coming off a career high 23.6 PPG in 2016.
Lucas Ailport: Wolves win their division. Like Jake said, this is suppose to be a bold prediction. Yes, the Oklahoma City Thunder are a great team, especially with the additions of Carmelo Anthony and Paul George alongside Russell Westbrook. But, the Wolves finally have a big three themselves in Butler, Towns and Wiggins. The Wolves also have a very solid bench, a bench that will help get those starters the rest they need.
Noah Shelton: The Wolves come up short in the battle for the eighth seed because of the intense competition from the Western Conference. Minnesota will not be able to respond quickly enough when faced with deficits over 10 points in the second half.
Payton Miller: KAT finishes top-five in the MVP voting. Towns put up massive numbers over the second half of last year and is just entering his third year in the league. With the Wolves finally putting together a playoff season, Towns will get more recognition across the country and his huge numbers will put him in the MVP conversation.
Nolan Schmidt: Karl-Anthony Towns, Andrew Wiggins, and Jimmy Butler represent the Timberwolves in the All-Star game. It would be the first time Minnesota has multiple All-Stars since 2004 where Kevin Garnett and Sam Cassell were voted in.