The Unlikely Rise of the Timberwolves: Are They on the Verge of an NBA Championship?
In the world of professional sports, upsets often become the most memorable moments. While many expected a strong season from the Denver Nuggets, the reigning NBA champions, few foresaw the Minnesota Timberwolves pulling off one of the most shocking victories in recent NBA history. With a 22-year-old Anthony Edwards leading the charge, the Timberwolves not only defeated the Nuggets but did so in the most pressure-packed of scenarios—a Game 7 on the road, trailing by 15 points at halftime. This victory has sparked debate about whether the Timberwolves, long relegated to the bottom of the league, might actually be the best team in the world this season.
Overcoming the Odds
No expert expected the Timberwolves to overcome such a dominant opponent, especially given the circumstances. Anthony Edwards, who had just two points in the first half and his team down by double digits, didn’t seem poised to lead his team to a comeback. But by the end of the game, the Wolves had found their rhythm, clawing their way back into contention, and ultimately pulling off the upset of the year. The post-game reaction was immediate, with even Charles Barkley admitting that he hadn’t been to Minnesota in 20 years but might be making a trip soon. The victory catapulted the Timberwolves into the Western Conference Finals, where they would face Luka Dončić and the Dallas Mavericks—a flawed but formidable team.
While Luka is arguably the best player in that upcoming series, the Mavericks have weaknesses that Minnesota can exploit. With Kristaps Porziņģis not at full strength, the Mavericks lack the size and defensive presence needed to contend with the Wolves. Minnesota’s top-ranked defense is a force, and their size—particularly with players like Rudy Gobert and Karl-Anthony Towns—poses a significant challenge for any opponent. If the Timberwolves make it past the Mavericks, a Finals matchup against the Celtics seems likely, where their size could also prove problematic for Boston, especially with Porziņģis at less than 100%.
Anthony Edwards: A Star in the Making
The bigger question emerging from all of this is the potential legacy of Anthony Edwards. At just 22 years old, Edwards has shown maturity beyond his years, taking control of games and displaying leadership reminiscent of NBA legends. Game 7 against the Nuggets highlighted his ability to impact the game in ways that go beyond scoring. While he finished the game with a modest 16 points, it was his playmaking and defense that stood out, tallying seven assists and just one turnover, while also making key plays on the defensive end. Edwards’ court vision, basketball IQ, and composure under pressure have many analysts comparing him to a young Michael Jordan.
However, unlike Jordan’s infamous scoring performances in similar situations, Edwards adapted to the defense thrown at him. Denver chose to double-team Edwards from the opening tip, forcing him to defer to teammates. Instead of forcing bad shots, Edwards made smart passes and trusted his teammates to make plays. His decision-making was crucial in Minnesota’s ability to claw back into the game and eventually seize control. Despite the limited scoring output, Edwards’ ability to maintain his composure and execute in a Game 7 situation speaks volumes about his potential to lead this team to an NBA championship.
The Fall of the Nuggets
On the other side, the defending champion Denver Nuggets are left grappling with a bitter defeat. Up by 20 points in the third quarter of a Game 7 at home, the Nuggets seemed destined to advance. But fatigue and a lack of depth ultimately proved to be their undoing. Nikola Jokić, the two-time MVP, played brilliantly, but Denver’s supporting cast failed to deliver. Jokić and Jamal Murray combined for 69 points, while the rest of the team contributed just 21. It was a disappointing end to a season that many believed could result in multiple championships for Denver.
Denver’s general manager, Calvin Booth, had once predicted that the Nuggets could win “three or four titles” with their core group. However, this defeat raises questions about whether that vision will come to fruition. The loss of key role players like Bruce Brown and Jeff Green in the offseason was a significant blow, leaving Denver without the depth needed to sustain a deep playoff run. Michael Porter Jr., who is on a max contract, struggled mightily, shooting just 19% from three-point range over the final three games of the series. The pressure now falls on the Nuggets’ front office to find a way to reload and address the team’s shortcomings.
Minnesota’s Defense: The Key to Success
Much of the Timberwolves’ success can be attributed to their defense, which ranked first in the NBA during the regular season. The team’s size and versatility on defense were key factors in wearing down the Nuggets, who simply ran out of gas in the second half of Game 7. Karl-Anthony Towns, often criticized for his performances in big games, delivered one of the best outings of his career, playing tough defense on Jokić and making critical plays down the stretch. Nas Reed, coming off the bench, made impactful plays on both ends of the court, including a key block on Jokić followed by a put-back on the offensive end.
The Timberwolves’ defense not only stifled Denver but also proved that they can adapt to various offensive threats. In a potential Finals matchup against Boston, Minnesota’s size could once again be a determining factor. While teams like the Nuggets and Celtics boast talented rosters, they lack the physicality and defensive prowess that Minnesota brings to the table. The Timberwolves’ ability to switch, contest shots, and control the glass has made them a nightmare matchup for any team in the league.
The Road Ahead: Championship Bound?
The Timberwolves’ improbable run to the Western Conference Finals has many wondering whether they can go all the way. Historically, teams that win championships often go through a progression—losing in the early rounds before breaking through. The Nuggets and Bucks both followed this path before winning their titles, but Minnesota has yet to even reach a Conference Finals in the last 20 years. Despite this lack of experience, the Timberwolves have the talent, defense, and leadership necessary to defy the odds.
If they do win the championship, Anthony Edwards will join an elite group of players to win a title at such a young age. The last 22-year-old to lead a team to a championship was Magic Johnson in 1980. More recently, players like Dwyane Wade and Tim Duncan have won titles in their mid-20s, but Edwards’ ascension at such a young age would be unprecedented in the modern era. Surrounded by veteran players, an elite defense, and a solid bench, Edwards has the tools to make history.
The final chapter of the Timberwolves’ 2024 season has yet to be written, but one thing is clear: this team is for real. Whether they hoist the Larry O’Brien Trophy or not, the future of the NBA may very well belong to Minnesota, and Anthony Edwards is poised to be its next superstar.
