Minnesota has lost one game in four, and the outlets covering the team have found plenty to worry about. Most of their concerns hold up against the box score, but one is ahead of the facts.
A Knee Under Watch
After Edwards put up 47 in Cleveland despite knee discomfort, The Athletic asked whether an early break is coming. Chris Schad of Dunking with Wolves wrote that knee problems could make Edwards less invincible than Minnesota needs. During the game, Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic noted that Edwards was playing through some discomfort. The record is narrow. Edwards was listed with a knee issue on October 26 and cleared on October 27. He averages 33.3 points through four games. No break has been reported, and his status gives no reason to expect one before Golden State visits Wednesday.
Nine Seconds at the Line
Kenny Kluska of Dunking with Wolves argued that free-throw problems have already cost Minnesota a win. The overtime sequence supports him. Trailing 125-122 with nine seconds left, LaMelo Ball missed both attempts, and Edwards' pull-up three to tie also missed. At the same outlet, Ethan Kinney wrote that Minnesota can't afford for Ball to be only a playmaker. In Cleveland, Ball had 11 points, six assists and seven turnovers and went 1 of 6 from deep. His four-game averages of 14.8 points and 6.3 assists are steadier than that one night. Still, Kinney's case gains weight when Edwards has to carry 47 points.
The Center and the Wing
Kinney and Eamon Cassels, both of Dunking with Wolves, turned to Rudy Gobert's offense, and Cassels called it a red flag for Minnesota's title chances. Gobert is averaging 8.0 points and 14.3 rebounds in 32.4 minutes, and he was part of the closing group in Cleveland. Their argument has to answer for the defense he anchors: Minnesota has allowed 100.5 points per 100 possessions, for a net rating of 16.8. Cassels also wants Jaden McDaniels more involved after halftime. In Cleveland, Minnesota scored 60 points in the first half and 53 in the second half plus overtime, while McDaniels shot 6 of 9. Kinney's claim that Terrence Shannon's shooting is quieting his doubters rests on 50 percent from three over four games. On the roster, Krawczynski reported that the Wolves are bringing back Enrique Freeman on a two-way contract to fill their one open slot, and that Freeman will start in Iowa.
Is Anthony Edwards injured?
Edwards was listed with a knee issue on October 26 and cleared on October 27. No missed games or rest break have been reported.
How did the Timberwolves lose to the Cavaliers?
Minnesota gave up a 15-point lead and lost 127-125 in overtime. Down three with nine seconds left, LaMelo Ball missed both free-throw attempts.
