The Timberwolves, a formerly dormant team, have high hopes for this season.
Anthony Edwards had just returned home from the gym on a July day. As soon as he sat down to sleep, his phone began to ring nonstop. He finally looked to see who was calling after approximately the tenth time, and it was Karl-Anthony Towns.
What do you want, bro? Edwards recalled the conversation from the summer on Monday.
You missed what just happened, right? Towns answered. Rudy was just traded for.
You missed what happened just now, right? Towns reacted. We recently traded for Rudy.
In addition to rousing Edwards from his afternoon nap, the trade for Rudy Gobert also did the same for a franchise that had lain inactive for the most of the previous two decades.
The Minnesota Timberwolves are facing high expectations for the first time since the Kevin Garnett era as they prepare for training camp with the goal of transforming themselves from NBA doormats into serious title contenders.
Gobert told reporters on Monday, “When you look at the roster and the skill we have in this bunch, it’s fairly remarkable.” “I’m fortunate to be surrounded by a bunch of men that I believe are capable of anything. Now, it’s important to create the appropriate habits and continue studying. Keep improving daily, and I believe this group can do anything.”
Gobert, a three-time winner of the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award, will bolster the Timberwolves’ defence and elevate them to the top six in the Western Conference.
The trade, in Edwards’ words, “might benefit us.” We have someone to protect the paint, so maybe we lose a few games without having to worry about [head coach Chris Finch] getting angry.
Tim Connelly, the new president of basketball operations, knew he had to prioritise it after seeing Ja Morant drive into the paint at will during the playoffs. As a result, he used a magic trick to bring Gobert to Minnesota.
Not just the defence should gain from the addition of Gobert. During France’s assault at the EuroBasket Championships, Gobert displayed an offensive style of play; his presence might be extremely beneficial for D’Angelo Russell.