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The level play from the four final teams highlights the distance between the Timberwolves and the league’s elite.
Watching the Conference Finals is often an exciting yet unfamiliar experience for Minnesota Timberwolves fans. The team has reached the second round once in its existence, when the Wolves lost to Los Angeles Lakers in the 2004 Western Conference Finals.
They’ve now made the playoffs in back-to-back seasons for the first time in 20 years, yet it feels as if a conference crown is unattainable. When watching the No. 8 seed Miami Heat take the first three games against the 57-win Boston Celtics, or seeing the Denver Nuggets sweep a very good Lakers team, reality becomes hauntingly clear.
Despite having various pieces in place — franchise cornerstone Anthony Edwards, elite two-way player Jaden McDaniels, rim-protecting center Rudy Gobert, and versatile offensive talent Karl-Anthony Towns — it’s evident while watching masterclass performances from the final four teams that the Timberwolves have serious work to do to hang with the best.
Photo by Bart Young/NBAE via Getty Images
Elite Head Coaching
As play on the court does, the quality of coaching skyrockets in the postseason. Xs and Os, rotation patterns and game plan tactics become more intense, but playoff experience and morale play a role just as important.
Miami Head Coach Erik Spoelstra possesses an ability to lead that few others have. His extensive postseason experience and rise from video coordinator to second-longest tenured head coach in the league is critical to a Heat team that rarely loses its cool. That journey, combined with the innate grit and undying determination from undrafted and written-off Heat players, creates a personality that thrives when things get tense.
Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images
It would be hard to draw up a more challenging series for Wolves Head Coach Chris Finch this postseason. Down McDaniels, playing against the No. 1 seed in the West, and one of your players punching a teammate just one week earlier made for a not-so-breezy first-round matchup.
Working with an incredibly thin rotation, and a clearly less-than-100% Rudy Gobert, Finch guided the Wolves through a series that included one win. They weren’t nearly on the same level as the Nuggets in terms of maturity and execution, but they fought.
Having a coach that cultivates fight-like-hell energy is integral to a team’s mentality. It’s at the core of every successful team, as they instill the thought that they’re capable — and deserving — of winning.
Finch isn’t at Spoelstra’s — or Denver Nuggets Head Coach Michael Malone’s — level yet, and that’s not unexpected. It takes time. But for the Timberwolves to eventually get to Miami- or Denver-level play, he’ll need to be as good as them tactically and when balancing emotions.
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High-Level Role Players
Not enough can be said about Denver’s offseason additions of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Bruce Brown. They’re two high-energy, versatile, and experienced players that are essential to a team like the Nuggets that play with pace and instinctively in the flow of the offense.
After building through the draft (Jamal Murray, Nikola Jokić, Michael Porter Jr., etc.), it was imperative for Denver to bring in high-level role players to surround their stars. It’s now the blueprint for small-market teams looking to build sustainable rosters that can make deep playoff runs.
Adding KCP’s championship experience to this specific roster was a huge get, without even considering his basketball talent. Falling short in the playoffs the last few seasons required someone to help them get over the hump (and just a healthy Jamal Murray, really), and instead of emptying their war chest for another player, they took a long, hard look at their options.
Before he arrived in Denver, Caldwell-Pope played no fewer than 67 games in any of his nine seasons. He’d shot just under 40% from beyond the arc in his last three seasons combined, and his skills fit perfectly around their existing roster. He’d won a championship with the Lakers in the bubble while playing 29 minutes per game in a starting role in the playoffs. He was a proven winner, exactly what they needed.
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Brown’s abilities were potentially overshadowed by a tumultuous big three in Brooklyn, his screen-setting, passing and defense in the background as the Nets worked through the difficulties of a top-heavy roster. A bit of an ironman himself, Brown played in 82% of his possible games through four seasons.
He was a good shooter on low volume in the regular season, but struggled to space in the playoffs. He’d shown flashes of competency, though, and next to shooters like Murray and Porter, it might just work.
Brown shot almost 36% from 3-point land on career-high volume this season. He also averaged a career-high 11.5 points per contest.
They committed to him as a two-way threat, and it panned out.
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The Heat are the gold standard for scouring for NBA talent, as their recent Game 5 blunder without Gabe Vincent proved how heavily relied on their role players can be.
Vincent, Duncan Robinson, Caleb Martin and Max Strus are all undrafted players, each of them playing critical roles in this team’s playoff run (Haywood Highsmith in Game 5 as well).
The Timberwolves have had recent success with under-the-radar talent; Naz Reid, Jordan McLaughlin and Jaylen Nowell have all periodically contributed to the team winning games. As a small market team, it’s even more imperative the Wolves do their scouting due diligence.
From a financial standpoint at this particular moment (all moments, really), it can’t be overstated how valuable rotation players on rookie deals would be.
Unwavering Competitive Mindset
A little swag never hurts.
Jimmy Butler’s Heat are no strangers to the highs and lows of the NBA, having lost in the finals to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021. Even after losing in Game 7 to these same Celtics, Butler had this to say:
Jimmy Butler after the Game 7 loss to Boston last year:
“Next year, we will have enough, and we’re gonna be right be right back in this same situation and we’re gonna get it done.”pic.twitter.com/9n9Yk6pMZP
— NBA Retweet (@RTNBA) May 17, 2023
Players often make claims about the future, with few coming to fruition. Perhaps it only feels this way because it actually might in this case, but Butler’s message had a different feel considering the Heat’s — and Butler’s — history.
After losing Games 4 and 5, Butler’s confidence seems to be relatively unshaken. He said after Thursday’s loss that Miami will win the next game.
Minnesota has a star wing/guard themselves, one that’s shown Butler-like abilities (minus the experience) by becoming the emotional heartbeat of the team. Edwards has been vocal about wanting to win and has brushed aside accolades and future money, which is unique for a 21-year-old.
For Edwards, the next step is to lead. Not just in terms of production, but to curate a Miami-type team personality that oozes confidence and self-awareness. Butler’s brought swag and grit when this team needed it most, and those emotions have infected the group around him.
There’s certainly no lack of personality with Edwards. When paired with his ability to take over games, there’s no reason he can’t have a Butler-like affect.
The Gap
The Wolves don’t have the talent scouting, coaching prowess, nor the elite role players like the Heat and Nuggets.
But it’s far too early to expect Minnesota to have the same continuity those teams have. Talent scouting — and talent acquisition — can always be better, but experience can’t be rushed.
Photo by Bart Young/NBAE via Getty Images
Finch is entering his fourth season as an NBA head coach, Spoelstra came into this season having coached in Miami for 14 seasons and Michael Malone for 10 (eight in Denver).
Jimmy Butler has been to the playoffs 11 times.
It’s natural to compare the Timberwolves to the league’s elite around this time of year, but the reality is that they’re too early in their process to even have that conversation. The talent is comparable, but they don’t have the experience — players and coach — to thrive in the postseason yet.
It takes time.
gabeschneider0
https://www.canishoopus.com/2023/5/27/23733712/how-nba-conference-finals-act-as-a-reality-check-for-minnesota-timberwolves-anthony-edwards
By: gabeschneider0
Title: How the Conference Finals Act as a Reality Check for the Timberwolves
Sourced From: www.canishoopus.com/2023/5/27/23733712/how-nba-conference-finals-act-as-a-reality-check-for-minnesota-timberwolves-anthony-edwards
Published Date: 05-27-2023
Frequently Asked Questions
Which basketball player is the best?
This is an unfair question, as there are many outstanding players. Everyone has their own opinions. Some of the most prominent contenders for this title include Kobe Bryant and LeBron James as well as Kareem AbdulJabbar, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and LeBron James. Each of these basketball icons has made a huge impact on the game and have earned their place as legends in basketball history. Furthermore, these players have each had unique styles of play that have been admired by millions worldwide. It is difficult to answer this question definitively as everyone has their opinion about the greatest player of all. These six players are undoubtedly the best players of all time and must be included in any list ranking the greatest.
However, most people agree that Michael Jordan is indeed the greatest basketball player of all time. He was born on February 17th 1963 in Wilmington, North Carolina.
Jordan started his professional basketball playing with the Chicago Bulls in 1984. He soon became one his era's most popular and successful players. Jordan was a six time NBA champion, six -time NBA finals M MVP, five -time NBA regular season MVP. He also served as a 10-time NBA score leader, 10-time NBA second team, nine times NBA all-defensive team MVP, and three times NBA steals leader.
Jordan was also a two time Olympic gold medalist and was inducted into Basketball Hall of Fame 2009. Jordan's remarkable ability to score from any position on the court, make plays and lead the team is what will be remembered. Because of his unwavering ambition and drive, Jordan will always be an inspiration for millions.
Jordan's legacy of greatness will be remembered forever. He is without doubt the greatest basketball player in history. His level of greatness is unparalleled by any other player. He will be forever remembered as one among the greatest sports figures ever. Michael Jordan is truly the greatest player of all-time. His remarkable career and achievements will be remembered forever. He was, will always be, and has been "The GOAT," the one and only Michael Jordan.
What is the average time it takes to become a NBA superstar?
To be a professional NBA star you need to put in a lot of effort and time. Becoming an NBA star requires years of hard work, physical conditioning, and skill development. On average, players spend three to five more years in college developing their skills before they make it to the draft. After being drafted, players need to continue their success in the NBA. They must earn a spot on their team and be eligible for All-Star teams. You will need to be more skilled and receive professional guidance from your coaches and trainers in order to do this. Ultimately, becoming an NBA superstar is not something that happens overnight or within a few short years. To achieve such honors, you need to be committed, dedicated, and patient. Anyone can achieve their dreams and be a NBA star with the right mindset.
How long does a player stay on waivers?
If an NBA player is let go by their team during the season, they are on the waiver. Waived athletes have 48 hours to claim another team. If more than one team claims the player in that time frame, priority goes to the team with the worst record.
Who holds record for most NBA career playoff wins?
LeBron has led the charge with an impressive 174 wins over NBA Playoffs history. He also played in 266 games. It's easy to see why he is one the most sought-after players in basketball today.
How much does a NBA ref make?
Referees of the National Basketball Association receive competitive salaries for their officiating tasks. An average NBA referee makes between $150,000 to $550,000 annually. This pay scale can depend on experience, with more experienced referees earning higher salaries. Referees in the playoffs and Finals receive higher salaries than referees with additional roles such training new refs or working within the video review department. Some NBA refs also receive income from endorsements and royalty payments for their work in television broadcasts or other media outlets. A job as a referee in the NBA is highly lucrative. If one is willing and able to put in the effort, it can be a steady source of income.
Referees of the NBA receive a salary and also have access to health insurance, retirement plans, as well as other benefits. Referees can enjoy a healthy lifestyle while officiating games. They also make crucial calls that could impact the outcome of a game's outcome. Referees may also be eligible for subsidised accommodation, meals, as well as travel to away games. This can be a comforting factor for referees who strive to achieve perfection on the courts.
NBA referees are paid a fair salary for their hard work. The job can be demanding, but it is a rewarding experience that provides referees with an opportunity to make a difference in basketball.
What are the salaries of NBA players?
The NBA's average salary is $7.3million for the 2021-2022 NBA season. This number is based on the $134million salary cap, which was established for this season. However, salaries for individual players will vary depending upon their experience and achievements.
Kevin Durant and LeBron Jones are both superstars who can make up to $40m a year. However, rookies could only make $898,310. Other veterans may be eligible to receive mid-level exception salaries, which can range from $4.76 million up to $9.258 millions depending on their experience. Additionally, players may earn bonuses or other incentives from their teams based on performance or team success.
Statistics
- The opening game of the 2020 Finals between the Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat brought in only 7.41 million viewers to ABC, according to The Hollywood Reporter. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The 2013–14 season opened with 92 international players on the opening night rosters, representing 39 countries and over 20% of the league. (en.wikipedia.org)
- As of 2014, 45 percent of its viewers were black, while 40 percent were white, making it the only top North American sport that does not have a white majority audience.[102]As of 2017Democrats than Republicans.[103]Outside (en.wikipedia.org)
- An estimated 800 million viewers watched the [105]2017–18 season. (en.wikipedia.org)
- "NBA first-round ratings drop 27 percent, 40 percent since 2017–18". (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
bleacherreport.com
- Which NBA Teams will Join the Victor Wembanyama Teamathon?
- Recent NBA Intel: Sources Expect Zach LaVine To Re-Sign With Chicago Bulls
si.com
- NBA Free Agency Preview: The Biggest Questions and Rumors
- Free From Quarantine: The NBA Bubble Is A Unique Experience
sbnation.com
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How To
How is the NBA All-Star Game selected?
The NBA All-Star Game's 24 participants are chosen by fan, media, current player voting and other methods. Fan voting accounts for 50% of the vote. Current players and media each contribute 25%. Each group has one vote, so all votes are counted. Each conference selects the players by position (2 guards, 2 forwards, and 1 center). The NBA Commissioner will choose a replacement player for any player who is injured or otherwise unable to play. The All-Star Game sees the participants compete against each in a predetermined format. The team that accumulates the most points in the four quarters wins will win. The winning team receives an extra donation to their charity foundation each year.
In addition, the All-Star Game's most valuable player receives a special trophy. As it brings together the best players from both conferences, The All-Star Game has become a very popular event in the NBA. It is an opportunity for fans and players to compete against each another, and see who emerges victorious. Fans look forward to the All-Star Game every year because it showcases some of the best players in the NBA. The NBA All-Star Game will provide entertainment and talent with its unique selection process.
