The Minnesota Timberwolves finally fired Kurt Rambis and as such, they’ve begun the search for a new head coach—preferably someone with a ‘fast break gameplan’.

The search is underway and the Wolves have interview their first candidate: Terry Porter.

Terry Porter—a former player, played 17 seasons in the NBA—the former 24th overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft, he went to the Portland Trailblazers till 1995.  From 1995-98 he played for none other than the Minnesota Timberwolves, 1998-99 for the Miami Heat and his final years from 1999-2002 with the San Antonio Spurs.

Also on Porter’s resume—a 2-time NBA all-star in 1991 & 1993 as well as the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award in 1993.  His career statistics in his 17-year career include: 15,586 points, 3,872 rebounds and 7,160 assists.

Porter is also experienced on the pine as well.  His coaching career includes stops as a head coach for the Milwaukee Bucks from 2003-05 and with the Phoenix Suns from 2008-09.  His overall record in those three years is 99-116 (.460).

Porter’s skills and experience as a point guard make Porter an ideal fit for the Timberwolves who just added point guard Ricky Rubio as the Wolves.  According to President of Operations: David Kahn, will look to ‘run’ this season, which would obviously contradict Porter’s hard nosed-defensive mindset (which is something that many (including myself) believe the Wolves REALLY NEED).

Other candidates for the head coaching job includes: Don Nelson, Rick Adelman & Bernie Bickerstaff as well as Memphis assistant: Dave Joerger.  None of which have gotten interviews—though according to the Star Tribune Don Nelson talked with David Kahn on the phone for over 40 minutes and they’ll talk again.

That’s all for now, as the lockout goes on and the coaching search moves forward stay tuned all year round for the up-to-date TWolves news, information and updates—lockout or not!  Thanks for reading and GO WOLVES!

The heads of Minnesota TWolves fans are still spinning as they attempt to decipher who exactly the Wolves drafted and who will be playing in a TWolves uniform next season. I’ll do my best to clear the air, if anyone is still left dazed and confused.

First off, the easy one, with the #2 pick in the 2011 NBA Draft the Minnesota Timberwolves selected Arizona forward Derrick Williams. Williams will be thrown in with the bevy of forwards the Wolves already posses—Michael Beasley, Martell Webster, Wesley Johnson, Lazar Hayward, Kevin Love, Anthony Randolph & Anthony Tolliver. Tonight, David Kahn made clear to the media that Derrick Williams will be playing for the Wolves next season and that Michael Beasley ‘supported’ the Wolves selecting Williams. With that being said, Williams could still be moved for a GREAT offer, but it would take some/a special player(s) in return. Furthermore, Michael Beasley could be on the move, though David Kahn stated that Beasley isn’t going anywhere…time will tell.

After the #2 pick things got INCREDIBLY murky for the Wolves.

The next pick Minnesota had was #20 which they acquired before the draft via the Memphis Grizzlies. With the 20th overall pick, the TWolves selected Donatas Motiejunas…though he won’t be a Minnesota Timberwolf. The Minnesota Timberwolves then turned around and sold his rights to Houston, along with Jonny Flynn for Rockets big man-Brad Miller as well as the 23rd & 57th pick(s).

That’s right Wolves fans, Jonny Flynn has played his last game for the Minnesota Timberwolves—though, he may not even play for his new team: the Houston Rockets, as they’re reportedly already looking to move Flynn (the idea being that they shed Miller’s $9M contract for Flynn’s $3M contract).

Then came the Wolves 23rd pick, which they had just acquired from the Rockets. With the 23rd overall pick, the Minnesota Timberwolves selected…Nikola Mirotic…for the Chicago Bulls! That’s right, Mirotic’s rights were promptly sent to the Bulls for their 28th & 43rd overall picks in the draft.

With that, the Wolves’ next pick was at 28 where they selected…Norris Cole…for the Miami Heat! AGAIN, the Wolves moved the pick to Miami and in return, received the 31st overall pick in the draft as well as a future 2nd rounder and cash considerations. How did the Heat have the 31st pick in the draft you may ask?! Oh, that’s right, it was sent to Miami from Minnesota in the Michael Beasley deal!

All right, the Wolves next pick was then the 31st overall. If you haven’t realized yet, the Wolves have now selected at 2, 20, 23 & 28 and so far have just new rookie on their roster: #2 overall pick: Derrick Williams! With the 31st overall pick, the TWolves selected…Bojan Bogdanovic…for the New Jersey Nets! Is anyone else sensing a pattern? That’s right, the Wolves selected this pick for the New Jersey Nets and in return received…cash considerations.

At this point you may be wondering: “Why do the Wolves keep trading away all their picks for $.” Well, if you’d been on Twitter, the rumor circulating would’ve been, that, since Kurt Rambis had been fired, the Wolves had to finance his buyout because the minority owners didn’t want to pay for it! David Kahn quickly refuted those rumors while talking to the media, but because most fans refer to Kahn as a “Little Weasel”, does that make you want to trust him? Does the way he dragged out the Rambis situation and treated Kurt extremely unprofessionally, make you want to trust him?

Anyway, back to the draft. The Wolves then selected 43rd. This was a pick acquired from Chicago via the Utah Jazz, the Minnesota Timberwolves selected UCLA guard Malcolm Lee…for the…Minnesota Timberwolves. Wait, is that right?…THAT’S RIGHT! David Kahn took and intends to keep Malcolm Lee.

Finally, with the last pick in the draft for the Minnesota Timberwolves the Wolves had the 57th pick. This was acquired in an alternate trade. The Blazers and the Mavericks swapped some picks/players-Rudy Fernandez went to Dallas, the Blazers got the 57th pick and the 26th pick (Jordan Hamilton). Then they sent Hamilton along with Andre Miller to the Nuggets for point guard Raymond Felton! All Wolves fans need to know, we got the 57th pick and with it…Tanguy Ngombo a forward from Qatar. Pete Philo—a scout for the Wolves reported has seen him play more than once and is very high on him. Though Ngombo will stay overseas for a year or two. I, myself have never heard of him, so I had to do a bit of research and rather than regurgitate what I found, follow the link below for an excellent story as well as video highlights of the Wolves’ newest international player.

http://www.asiabasketballupdate.com/1/post/2011/06/targuy-ngombo-qatars-nba-hopeful.html

A small sidenote: the trades that I’ve discussed above are those pertaining to the Minnesota Timberwolves, there were more trades that took place, but I’ve only listed the ones that are relevant to Minnesota!

Well, hopefully we’ve helped to clear the air! I’ll be around as always providing you with daily updates on TWolves news & information. Any questions, comments or concerns about tonight’s draft or anything TWolves feel free to message me or find me on Twitter: @donnycersado27 for clarification. Thanks for reading, GO WOLVES and GOOD NIGHT!

Stay with us all night as we bring you the 2011 NBA Draft updates.  Updated every minute!!!

ROUND ONE

#1 Cleveland Cavaliers (via Los Angeles Clippers)

-Kyrie Irving, G, Duke

#2 Minnesota Timberwolves

-Derrick Williams, F, Arizona

#3 Utah Jazz (via New Jersey Nets)

-Enes Kanter, C, Turkey/Kentucky

#4 Cleveland Cavaliers

-Tristan Thompson, F, Texas

#5 Toronto Raptors

-Jonas Valanciunas, C, Lithuania

#6 Washington Wizards

-Jan Vesely, F, Czech Republic

#7 Sacramento Kings (traded to Charlotte Bobcats)

-Bismack Biyombo, F-C, Congo

#8 Detroit Pistons

-Brandon Knight, G, Kentucky

#9 Charlotte Bobcats

-Kemba Walker, G, Connecticut

#10 Milwaukee Bucks (traded to Sacramento)

-Jimmer Fredette, G, BYU

#11 Golden State Warriors

-Klay Thompson, G, Washington State

#12 Utah Jazz

-Alec Burks, G, Colorado

#13 Phoenix Suns

-Markieff Morris, F, Kansas

#14 Houston Rockets

-Marcus Morris, F, Kansas

#15 Indiana Pacers

-Kawhi Leonard, F, San Diego State

#16 Philadelphia 76ers

-Nikola Vucevic, F, USC

#17 New York Knicks

-Iman Shumpert, G, Georgia Tech

#18 Washington Wizards (via Atlanta Hawks)

-Chris Singleton, F, Florida State

#19 Charlotte Bobcats (via New Orleans Hornets) (traded to Milwaukee)

-Tobias Harris, F, Tennessee

#20 Minnesota Timberwolves (via Memphis Grizzlies) (traded to Houston Rockets)

-Donatas Motiejunas, F, Lithuania

#21 Portland Trailblazers

-Nolan Smith, G, Duke

#22 Denver Nuggets

-Kenneth Faried, F, Morehead  State

#23 Houston Rockets (via Orlando Magic) (traded to Minnesota, then moved to Chicago)

-Nikola Mirotic, F, Spain

#24 Oklahoma City Thunder

-Reggie Jackson, G, Boston College

#25 Boston Celtics (traded to New Jersey Nets)

-Marshon Brooks, G, Providence

#26 Dallas Mavericks

-Jordan Hamilton, F, Texas

#27 New Jersey Nets (via Los Angeles Lakers) (traded to Boston)

-JaJuan Johnson, F ,Purdue

#28 Chicago Bulls (via Miami Heat) (traded to Minnesota) (then to Miami)

-Norris Cole, G, Cleveland State

#29 San Antonio Spurs

-Cory Joseph, G, Texas

#30 Chicago Bulls

-Jimmy Butler, F, Marquette

ROUND TWO

#31 Miami Heat (via Minnesota Timberwolves) (traded back to Minnesota) (then traded to New Jersey for cash)

-Bojan Bogdanovic, G, Croatia

#32 Cleveland Cavaliers

-Justin Harper, F, Richmond

#33 Detroit Pistons (via Toronto Raptors)

-Kyle Singler, F, Duke

#34 Washington Wizards

-Shelvin Mack, G, Butler

#35 Sacramento Kings

-Tyler Honeycutt, F, UCLA

#36 New Jersey Nets

-Jordan Williams, F, Maryland

#37 Los Angeles Clippers (via Detroit Pistons)

-Trey Thompkins, F, Georgia

#38 Houston Rockets (via Los Angeles Clippers)

-Chandler Parsons, F, Florida

#39 Charlotte Bobcats

-Jeremy Tyler, C, San Diego/Japan

#40 Milwaukee Bucks

-Jon Leuer, F , Wisconsin

#41 Los Angeles Lakers (from Golden State via New Jersey Nets)

-Darius Morris, G , Michigan

#42 Indiana Pacers (traded to San Antonio Spurs)

-Davis Bertans, F , Latvia 

#43 Chicago Bulls (via Utah Jazz) (traded to Minnesota)

-Malcolm Lee, G , UCLA

#44 Golden State Warriors (from Phoenix via Chicago Bulls)

-Charles Jenkins, G, Hofstra

#45 New Orleans Hornets (sold to New York for $750K)

-Josh Harrelson, C, Kentucky

#46 Los Angeles Lakers (from New York Knicks)

-Andrew Goudelock, F, College of Charleston

#47 Los Angeles Clippers (from Houston Rockets)

-Travis Leslie, G, Georgia 

#48 Atlanta Hawks

-Keith Benson, C, Oakland

#49 Memphis Grizzlies

-Josh Selby, G, Kansas

#50 Philadelphia 76ers (from New Orleans Hornets)

-Lavoy Allen, F, Temple University

#51 Portland Trailblazers

-John Diebler, G, Ohio State

#52 Detroit Pistons

-Vernon Macklin, F, Florida

#53 Orlando Magic

-DeAndre Liggins, G, Kentucky

#54 Cleveland Cavaliers (from Oklahoma City via Miami Heat)

-Milan Macvan, F, Serbia

#55 Boston Celtics

-E’Twaun Moore, G, Purdue

#56  Los Angeles Lakers

-Chukwudiebere Maduabum, F, Bakersfield (NBDL)

#57 Dallas Mavericks (traded to Portland) (then traded to Minnesota)

-Tanguy Ngombo, F, Qatar

#58 Los Angeles Lakers (from Miami Heat)

-Ater Majok, F, Sudan

#59 San Antonio Spurs

-Adam Hanga, G, Hungary

#60 Sacramento Kings (from Chicago Bulls via Milwaukee Bucks)

-Isaiah Thomas, G, Washington

Two former Minnesota Timberwolves have finally attained the Championship Gold in the NBA.  Brian Cardinal played for Minnesota in ‘08-‘09 & ‘09-‘10 and Corey Brewer who started his career in Minnesota and played for the Wolves earlier this season.

Brian Cardinal got his first ring after 11 years in the NBA-playing for: Detroit Pistons, Washington Wizards, Golden State Warriors, Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves and finally the Dallas Mavericks.

Corey Brewer was drafted in 2007 by the Minnesota Timberwolves with the 7th overall pick.  Through 4 years he’s got his first ring with the Champion Mavericks.  He was traded in the Carmelo Anthony deal from Minnesota to New York.  The Knicks later waived the great defender and the Mavericks later signed him to a 3-year deal.

Cardinal played in 8 of the Mavs’ postseason games, averaging 3.1mpg, 0.4rpg & 0.9ppg.  Not an integral part of the Mavs’ postseason run.  However, after Brendan Haywood went down with an injury, he saw his minutes increase in the Finals provide a lot of hustle, hard work and defense for Dallas.

Brewer saw even less time in the postseason.  He played 6 games, averaging 3.8mpg, 0.7spg & 1.5ppg.  However, unlike Cardinal, Brewer didn’t play at all in the Finals.  In fact, the last game he played in the Finals was 5 minutes in the 1st game of the Playoffs Semi-Finals against the Thunder.

Even though, neither were big contributors for the Mavericks this season or postseason, but nonetheless they’ve both got their rings.

Thanks for reading and remember to stay tuned for all the up-to-date TWolves news, information and updates all offseason long.  Thanks for reading-CONGRATS MAVS & GO WOLVES!

UPDATE: June 1, 2011 9:30pmCT.  Along with Hunter & Douby, the TWolves will also be working out Orien Greene, J.R. Giddens, Cedric Jackson, Matt Janning, Alexander Johnson, Jerel McNeal, James Singleton, John Thomas, Matt Bouldin, DeShawn Sims, Darius Washington Jr., James Mays and Chris Daniels.

The Minnesota Timberwolves are holding free-agent workouts this Thursday & Friday at the Target Center in Minneapolis Minnesota.  

Among a crop of 15-some players, the Wolves are bringing in: center Steven Hunter and point guard Quincy Douby.

Douby would likely serve as a deep reserve in the backcourt, since it’s expected that free agent Sebastian Telfair won’t be back with the squad next year.  Douby hasn’t played since the ‘08-‘09 season, but in his three-year career he’s averaged 4.1ppg & 0.7apg in 10.7mpg.

Hunter would likely be another deep reserve in the frontcourt behind Darko Milicic & Nikola Pekovic.  Hunter hasn’t played since the ‘09-‘10 season with the Grizzlies.  However, in his 8-year career he’s been a bit of an NBA journeyman playing for 5 different teams (Orlando Magic, Phoenix Suns, Philadelphia 76ers, Denver Nuggets & Memphis Grizzlies).  In his NBA career he’s averaged 4.5ppg, 3.2rpg & 1.1bpg in 15mpg.

We’ll have more for you after the workouts are held, on who stood out and who has a chance at joining the Wolves for the ‘11-‘12 campaign.  Thanks for reading and GO WOLVES!

Today, we’re taking a look back at the late-October issue of Sports Illustrated, which was their 2010-11 NBA Preview issue.  On the cover are scoring champion Kevin Durant, defensive swingman Thabo Sefelosha & big man Nenad Krstic.  The title reads: Lakers & Heat BEWARE, THUNDER BALL: Kevin Durant & Co. are growing up Fast.  No doubt the Thunder did a lot of growing up moving past the Denver Nuggets and the Memphis Grizzlies on their way to the Western Conference Finals where they were ousted on May 25th by the Mavericks in 5 games.  Enough about the cover, let’s take a look inside…

The first part of the NBA Preview is a story on the OKC Thunder.  Actually a pretty good read (by Lee Jenkins).  Of course the picture has Jeff Green, Thabo Sefelosha, Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook & Nenad Krstic in it.  It would now, have KD, Russ, James Harden, Serge Ibaka & Kendrick Perkins as they made some offseason moves.

The second section of the NBA Preview is…a real shocker!!!  A story about the Miami Heat!  I’m sure you haven’t seen to many of those since “The Decision”!  I honestly didn’t read it, because I didn’t/don’t care!  

The next section of the Preview is the outlook of all the teams and where they’ll end up when all is said and done.  In the Eastern Conference, they had the Milwaukee Bucks, Detroit Pistons and the Charlotte Bobcats all making the playoffs.  In their place: the Philadelphia 76ers, Indiana Pacers & the New York Knicks all made the playoffs.  For the Western Conference, they had the Phoenix Suns, Houston Rockets & the Utah Jazz all making the playoffs.  In their place: the New Orleans Hornets, Denver Nuggets & the Memphis Grizzlies all made the playoffs.  One thing they did get right, they had the Minnesota Timberwolves finishing 15th in the West, that they did.  They were, obviously the worst team in the NBA (record-wise).  The Conference Finals in the East were the Heat over the Celtics and in the West it was the Lakers over the Spurs.  Well, the Heat eliminated the Chicago Bulls in 5 games and are going head-to-head with the Mavs (once again: 2006!!) in the NBA Finals.   In the West however, the Lakers and Spurs were both eliminated as the Dallas Mavericks moved on to the Finals.  Their finals of Lakers over Heat obviously won’t happen either.

Moving on now, to what Sports Illustrated saw at the beginning of the season for the TWolves.  Let’s see if they were right…

The starting lineup and key reserves were listed as follows: PG: Jonny Flynn, SG: Martell Webster, SF: Michael Beasley, PF: Kevin Love, C: Darko Milicic.  Reserves: Wesley Johnson, Luke Ridnour, Corey Brewer.  Well…the backcourt obviously was a little off.  Both Jonny Flynn & Martell Webster had preseason surgeries to fix some injuries.  For Martell it was a back injury, that allowed him to play just 46 games in the ‘10-‘11 season.  For Jonny it was offseason hip surgery that allowed him to play just 53 games.  The difference of course, when Martell came back he was a big contributor for the Wolves off the bench.  When Jonny came back, his play was simply…horrendous!  

The next part of the TWolves preseason analysis is a section on a rival scout “sizing” up the Wolves.  The first statement this rival scout makes: “Kevin Love may not be their best player, but he’s certainly their most marketable.”  This one just didn’t make sense.  The fact is, before Jefferson was traded, Love had to come off the bench and never got the big minutes.  The bigger question is…if Love wasn’t their best player going into the preseason, WHO WAS!?  It certainly wasn’t Beasley: who had big struggles in Miami and had been somewhat written off, by a lot of folks.  If he thought it was Darko…HA!  Flynn?  Ridnour?  Brewer?  Webster?  Who was better?  Anyway…moving on.  He also added that Love isn’t a back-to-the-basket kind of player.  That is without a doubt, TRUE!  Love is definitely a jump shooter (face-up).  There were very few times this season where he’d receive the ball in the post and try to back down his defender using post moves and strength.  Something, that he needs to work on, along with his post D!

The next question…Who’s playing Center.  This was certainly a question that was on everyone’s minds (in ‘10-‘11 and STILL IS!).  Last summer the Wolves signed Darko to a 4-year $20M deal.  He definitely made some leaps and bounds as a player, but he still can’t be considered “starting material” he is a backup, at best!  What this rival scout thought, was that they needed a really gifted low-post scorer to play alongside Love, someone like…I don’t know…Al Jefferson?  He of course was traded to Utah for a couple of 1st round draft picks and Kosta Koufos (now with Denver).  For the ‘11-‘12 season, they definitely need to find an answer to this question that doesn’t end with DARKO!!

The next part was all about the Wolves offseason addition: Michael Beasley.  Beasley was acquired by the Wolves in an trade with the Miami Heat: the former #2 pick: Beasley for two future 2nd round picks (yes that is what we call a STEAL).  We all know Beasley was simply amazing in college and we all know that since joining the NBA he’s had more than his fair share of struggles.  Since joining the Heat in the 2008 NBA Draft (#2 pick to Miami after Derrick Rose), he’s had the opportunity to play with a superstar in this League: Dwayne Wade.  However, just as SI points out, that in his first two years it has looked as though he’s unable to play with anyone.  However, Beasley found a bit of a niche in Minnesota this season, he improved his shooting, however his rebounding was awful (as usual) obviously not too easy with the leading rebounder grabbing 10-20rpg a night (K. Love).  His defense and hist “teamwork” were notably ‘bad’ as well.  His defense wasn’t great, he played a permanently at the small forward this season, which changes where he is on the court and who he’s guarding.  He certainly isn’t the greatest ball handler (as he lead the Wolves in turnovers per game this season: 2.7).  The biggest quote that stood out from the SI preview was (in reference to Beas) that he has so much talent, but doesn’t do much with it and Pat Riley, one of the greatest GMs, coaches & players in this League couldn’t harness it or rather, just gave up on the young man.  Needless to say, if Beasley is committed to putting the work in, he could be a star in this League, if not, he’ll always be a large volume scorer, but nothing much beyond that.

The next big issue was second-year point guard: Jonny Flynn.  We’ve discussed this before and it is quite obvious, Flynn was simply awful in his second year.  With the offseason hip surgery and his struggles as he returned and couldn’t beat out veteran Luke Ridnour for his starting spot.  In his first year, Flynn was the best at getting the ball from one end of the court to the other at high speed and pushing it to the rim.  However, the biggest issue for Flynn has been the system he’s been playing.  Jonny is a pick-and-roll player and in Minnesota he’s had to run the triangle offense; something he’s been unable to accomplish efficiently.  The SI issue had Jonny having a great year, but that didn’t happen whatsoever.  I’d say, it’s a great possibility that Flynn won’t be donning the green & blue next season.

Lastly for the Wolves preview: a little best case-worst case scenario.  The following is a look at exactly what was written in the issue and we’ll see what projections actually ‘came true’.

BEST CASE: “They sort out their logjam at point guard & small forward allowing Jonny Flynn to take charge & Michael Beasley to thrive in his new environment.  Even better, they don’t make any more trades.

-Well, the TWolves did sort out their logjams at the 1 & 3 spots.  Mainly because of injury.  Ridnour took over for the starting guard last year: Flynn after he had to have offseason hip surgery.  Last year’s Wolves starting small forward was Ryan Gomes (who was traded to Portland, later waived and signed by the Clippers).  Beasley stepped up as the starter as their other offseason acquisition also had an injury that required surgery (on his back: herniated disc).  So actually Ridnour & Beasley both thrived (based on past statistics) in their new environments.

-Next, the Wolves did actually make a trade this season.  They were the third team that was involved in the Carmelo Anthony deal that sent him from Denver to New York.  The TWolves sent out their longest tenured player: Corey Brewer, to the New York Knicks and their offseason acquisition center from Utah: Kosta Koufos to the Denver Nuggets.  In return they received two New York Knick players: Anthony Randolph & Eddy Curry (Curry was bought out, shortly thereafter).  This was definitely a good trade.  They sorted out their jam at the shooting guard, sent a third string center out and snagged a big athletic forward that’s extremely versatile, whose potential is practically limitless.

WORST CASE: “Flynn cannot get the minutes he needs to develop, neither can rookie forward Wesley Johnson & Kevin Love misses Al Jefferson in the middle.  GM David Kahn picks up the phone and begins yet another makeover.

-Flynn certainly couldn’t get the minutes, his offseason hip surgery was the biggest reason and when he returned Wolves fans around the world groaned every time he checked in the game.  Wesley Johnson had to move to shooting guard to get the minutes and he struggled with his position change, but he could easily improve with some serious work.  

-Did Kevin Love miss Big Al in the middle?  Well, let’s take a look…Love finally got the minutes he deserves and he performed incredibly: leading the Wolves in scoring and the NBA in rebounds and rebounds per game as well as making the Western Conference all-star team and winning the Most Improved Player of the Year Award.  Did he miss Big Al?  I think the answer is obvious…NO!

-After a 17-win season (just a 2-win improvement from ‘09-‘10), GM Kahn hasn’t yet begun yet another makeover, but I don’t think the Wolves are in the clear from that.  They do have a nice core: Beasley, Love, Randolph, Rubio? (maybe someday), as well as the #2 pick in the 2011 NBA Draft.

The TWolves are an organization that has been in turmoil for far too long.  However, with Love & Beasley leading the way, the Wolves could seriously contend; even in the loaded West.

If you honestly read through all this, thank you, I suppose :)  As always you can always find your NBA Wolves news and information on this site all summer long.   Stay tuned, thanks for reading and GO WOLVES!

There have been a lot of rumors lately regarding the Timberwolves’ #2 pick in the draft, which the TWolves have swayed back-and-forth on whether they will trade it.  The consensus seems to be: they’d only trade it if they can get a good veteran player, they don’t intend to just give it away.  However, the TWolves also have the #20 pick in the Draft (via Memphis) and speculation is, they’re more likely to trade that pick, at least that’s what Sam Amick of Sports Illustrated says (via a source).

Chad Ford’s latest Mock Draft (3.0) has the Timberwolves selecting Donatas Motiejunas a 7-foot, 19-year-old, power forward from Lithuania.  

Also in Chad Ford’s mock draft he talks about the Timberwolves’ #2 pick.  He has them selecting Derrick Williams.  However he expects the TWolves to trade Williams for a few or one solid veteran player.  However, he also threw out the possibility of the Timberwolves trading one of their starting forwards: Michael Beasley or Kevin Love, to make room for Williams (saying that Kevin Love would certainly welcome a trade).  

That’s all for now, thanks for reading and remember you can find all your up-to-date TWolves news and information right here all summer long.  GO WOLVES!

The Minnesota Timberwolves’ trip to the NBA Lottery had them slip down once again.  The TWolves had the best mathematical chance at the #1 pick (25%), but fell to #2 as the Cleveland Cavaliers grabbed the top spot thanks to the Los Angeles Clippers’ pick that went up 7 spots from #8 to #1.

As such, the Minnesota Timberwolves have already stated that they may trade the pick, either to trade down in the Draft or to grab a veteran player-maybe both!

The Cleveland Cavaliers have the #1 and #4 picks and it is almost certain that they will be selecting Kyrie Irving with that top pick.  The obvious next choice: talent-wise is Derrick Williams out of Arizona.  A versatile scoring forward, something they already possess in Beasley.  Other options include the Turkish center Enes Kanter & Bismack Biyombo, both have had their names linked to the Timberwolves.  With Biyombo however, the TWolves could certainly trade down in the draft and get him in the 7th or 8th pick.

Some of the names that Wolves reporters, fans and NBA analysts have been throwing out as far as possible veteran players for the Wolves include: Rudy Gay of the Memphis Grizzlies, Monta Ellis of the Golden State Warriors, Andre Iguodala of the Philadelphia 76ers, Ben Gordon of the Detroit Pistons…these are obviously just a few of the names that are being thrown around.

I’m sure we’ll have more information as we draw closer to that June 23rd Draft night.  For now, you can find all your up-to-date information and news on the Minnesota Timberwolves all offseason long right here.  Thanks for reading and GO WOLVES!

Minnesota Timberwolves forward Kevin Love may have beaten out a Northwest Division counterpart, in LaMarcus Aldridge for the All-Star game, but LA has edged him out as a member of the All-NBA Team(s).  

There was of course a lot of controversy after Commissioner David Stern chose the Wolves’ Kevin Love over LaMarcus Aldridge for Yao Ming’s All-Star injury replacement.  A lot of people were upset, the argument being: LA is actually playing for and practically carrying a winning team, whereas Kevin Love had incredible numbers playing for, what would eventually be: the worst team in the NBA (record-wise).  Zach Randolph was also looked over as he was putting up his usual and impressive 20-10 numbers for the Memphis Grizzlies (who, if you’re watching the Playoffs are doing simply: AMAZING, lead by?…Z-BO!).  

Aldridge & Randolph have exacted their revenge, though I highly doubt that either one sees it that way, they’re just playing the game in search of a ring.  

Both LA & Z-Bo are members of the 3rd All-NBA Team.  The teams stack up as follows…

FIRST TEAM: Derrick Rose (CHI), Kobe Bryant (LAL), LeBron James (MIA), Kevin Durant (OKC), Dwight Howard (ORL)

SECOND TEAM: Russell Westbrook (OKC), Dwayne Wade (MIA), Dirk Nowitzki (DAL), Amar’e Stoudemire (NYK), Pau Gasol (LAL)

THIRD TEAM: Chris Paul (NOH), Manu Ginobli (SAS), LaMarcus Aldridge (POR), Zach Randolph (MEM), Al Horford (ATL)

That’s all for now.  Stay up to date will all your Minnesota Timberwolves news from around the League right here all summer long!  Until then, thanks for reading and as always GO WOLVES!

The following is a list of the power forward free agents.  Some, have early termination options (player & team), others are restricted free agents (any team that makes them an offer can be matched by their current team) and lastly unrestricted free agents.

This is a look at all the possible power forward free agents and isn’t necessarily a list of players that the Timberwolves need to target, but rather a list of the potential free agents and what they could bring to the table for Minnesota.

-Tim Duncan (ETO): Tim Duncan in any other color besides black, white & silver!?  I don’t believe it!  You shouldn’t either.  Duncan does have an early termination option and there’s a good chance he could opt out of his contract this summer.  The aging superstar was knocked out of playoffs early last week after his Spurs were defeated by the Memphis Grizzlies.  The big man could opt out, much like Richard Jefferson did last summer: to sign a long(er) contract for more money.  I wouldn’t expect to see the ‘Old Fundamental’ playing anywhere else next season.

-David West (ETO): West has an early termination option this offseason as well.  I don’t see that happening however.  West had that season-ending injury late last season, putting him out for the playoffs, where the Lakers beat the Hornets in 6 games.  Before the injury, the thought was that West would almost certainly opt-out, however, since that injury his value has decreased substantially.  The Hornets have said they want to bring him back and that’s what you’ve got to expect.

-Boris Diaw (PO): Diaw of the Charlotte Bobcats is a solid versatile forward.  He’s a solid three-point shooter who has the ability to bang on the block and shot from the outside.  A lot of his teammates say he has a very easy-going attitude, maybe to easy-going, saying, if he was a little more dedicated he could potentially be a star in this League.  There is no doubt however, that he’ll pick up his player option worth over $9M.  He will be a Bobcat for at least one more season.

-Louis Amundson (PO): Amundson a former-Phoenix Sun signed with the Golden State Warriors last offseason and this summer he’ll have the opportunity to re-up with the Warriors or opt-out.  Amundson is a solid role player, nothing really special.  He plays hard and makes plays.  I’d expect him to resign with the Warriors, if he doesn’t, I’m sure there’ll be a plethora of teams looking for a stretch 4-5 guy.

-Brian Cook (PO): Brian Cook also has a team option for next season for the Los Angeles Clippers.  Cook isn’t a great player by any means, he’s a bit of a shooter, but beyond that, there’s nothing.  If he does decide to opt-out, I don’t see to many interested teams waiting in the wings.

-Jeff Green (R): Jeff Green is a restricted free agent this summer and you can be certain that if the Boston Celtics don’t resign the swingman to a lengthy deal, the town of Boston may riot (after they gave up fan-favorite Kendrick Perkins to acquire him).  Green is supposed to be one of the integral parts of their rebuilding process.  Green is a young swingman with a lot of talents as a point forward.  However, being a restricted free agent, you better believe he will get more than his far share of offers from various clubs around the League.

-Carl Landry: Carl Landry has made two NBA Trade Deadline moves in the past two seasons.  He was traded from the Houston Rockets to the Sacramento Kings two seasons ago and this past season he was traded from the Sacramento Kings to the New Orleans Hornets.  He’s a talented, still youthful forward with a knack for getting it done in the paint and mid-range.  Landry will certainly get some other offers, but the Hornets have been vocal in saying they hope to retain him.  He’s a good player, but he just wouldn’t fit with the players the TWolves currently have.

-Kenyon Martin: Kenyon Martin, the former #1 pick is a free agent this offseason.  The Nuggets could certainly look to renew his contract with the team and continue starting him at the 4-spot.  However, there’s no doubt he won’t be making the near-$16M he did last season.  Martin is a physical power forward, he can handle the best in the paint.  Known mostly as a banger as well.  Martin is a veteran big that will garner some interest and I definitely see him moving elsewhere this summer.  The Nuggets are going younger and he’s not the answer at the four.  Expect him to jump somewhere like New Jersey [this is a possibility, but this is the team he was drafted by just under a decade ago (as the #1 pick)].  

-Troy Murphy: Troy Murphy was traded to the New Jersey Nets and then thrown to the inactive list for the majority of the season.  Before the Trade Deadline he was traded to the Warriors and then waived, later signing with the Celtics.  He’s got minimal minutes, but he’s a great shooter especially for a big man as well as a capable rebounder.  He could be a starter for a lot of teams, but he’s currently a third-string forward for the Celts, needless to say, I see him signing elsewhere this offseason.  The Wolves?  It’s a possibility, but not a very likely one, the Wolves already have Love, Randolph & Tolliver at the 4, Murphy wouldn’t see much more play time for Minnesota.  I could see him in Miami?  LA Lakers?  All possibilites.

-Kris Humphries: I wrote an article a few weeks back discussing Kris Humphries, the Minnesota-native, possibly coming to play for his hometown-TWolves.  Humprhies basically said that he likes playing for the Nets and they’ll be moving to Brooklyn and they’re getting a new arena and he wants to be a part of that, head coach Avery Johnson wants him to be a part of that, and the Nets organization wants him to be a part of that.  I think the indications are pretty obvious, I’d expect you to see Kris back with the Nets for long-term.

-Glen Davis: Glen Davis is a young forward for the Boston Celtics.  This is the third Celtics power forward free agent this summer!  Clearly they can’t keep them all, however, Glen Davis should be back in Bean Town for a lengthy contract.  The big young forward is a HUGE spark off the bench and could even be a starter for some of the teams around the League.  Glen Davis will likely be a Celtic long-term.

-Vladimir Radmonovic: Radmonovic, the power forward shooter.  A deep reserve for most teams, Vlad is currently a member of the Golden State Warriors.  He’s a below-average player in almost every facet of the game.  However, his shooting is valuable, that along with his size, will certainly get him an offer this summer, most likely, not fromt the Warriors, or the TWolves, but some team.

-Solomon Jones: Jones is currently and Indiana Pacer, I haven’t seen him play much and I do watch a lot of NBA games.  He’s a young player who actually got some significant minutes this season and last.  With Tyler Hansborough for most of two seasons ago and Troy Murphy gone this past season, Solomon has gotten some bigger more minutes, however, I remember reading something that Head Coach (at the time) Jim O’Brien said, that he wouldn’t be starting anymore because of his inability to rebound the basketball.  If, however, he was playing significant minutes for a playoff team, he could certainly get a contract offer [granted the Pacers were the worst team in the playoffs (record-wise)].

-Josh McRoberts: McRoberts, another Pacer power forward will also be a free agent this offseason.  If you remember, the Pacers nearly traded McRoberts and one of their draft picks to the Memphis Grizzlies for…O.J. Mayo!!  Mayo is quite obviously MUCH more talented than McRoberts.  I could see Josh resigning with the Pacers this summer.  He’s a big guy with a solid inside game, nothing great, but a valuable reserve for any squad.  I anticipate Indiana to keep him as a 2nd-stringer behind Hansborough.

-Reggie Evans: Evans, the biggest threat to Kevin Love for the rebounding title last season before he broke his foot.  He’s an great rebounder, beyond that, NOTHING.  Evans could certainly garner some interest because of that, but I don’t know how many teams are interested in a big man who can rebound and do nothing else.  

-Jared Jeffries: From New York to Houston and back to New York once again.  That’s the story for Jeffries who was a part of the Houston-New York deal that sent Tracy McGrady to New York and Jordan Hill & Jared Jeffries to Houston.  Jeffries was waived around this past season’s trade deadline after the Rockets had to free up roster spots for Smith, Thabeet, Carroll etc.  Jeffries then hopped back onto the Knicks and even started a few games at center, of course the Knicks were swept in the 1st round by the Celtics.  Jeffries could resign to a few places, but I’d expect him to stay in New York, however, wherever he goes, he won’t get a whole lot of playing time.

-Leon Powe: Leon Powe was waived by the Cavs and later signed with the Memphis Grizzlies.  He’s a great young player who has been part of a few championship-caliber teams: Boston & Cleveland.  Leon garnered some interest after he was waived and I would expect the same this summer.  Wherever he goes, I’d expect him to sign with a solid team that’ll give him some play time, but not likely a team of championship-caliber, the Grizzlies?  Perhaps, however, they’re looking more championship-caliber every game out in these playoffs (currently 1-1 against OKC).

-Steve Novak: Novak, like Radmonovic a tall three-point shooter and nothing else.  He’s had stints mostly with the Los Angeles Clippers, Dallas Mavericks and the San Antonio Spurs.  Beyond three-point shooting Novak wouldn’t be in the NBA.  I’d expect him to catch on as a bench warmer for some team, but I couldn’t tell you who.

The following is a list of the the small forward free agents.  Some, have early termination options (player & team), others are restricted free agents (any team that makes them an offer, can be matched by their current team) and lastly unrestricted free agents.

This is a look at all the possible small forward free agents and isn’t necessarily a list of players that the Timberwolves need to target, but rather a list of the potential free agents and what they could bring to the table for Minnesota.

-C.J. Miles (TO): C.J. has had an up-and-down career, from starter to bench warmer to D-League to role player and everywhere in between for the Utah Jazz.  He has a team option this offseason for the Jazz and I’d expect them to almost definitely pick it up.  This is the same player that set a career-high in points at 40 in the UTA-MIN last meeting.  If he isn’t re-upped, I wouldn’t doubt the TWolves to be interested.  He’s a young-potential and brings athleticism, shooting and above-average defense.

-Mickael Pietrus (PO): Pietrus was involved in that trade that sent Carter, Gortat and himself to the Phoenix Suns in exchange for Hedo Turkoglu and Jason Richardson.  I wouldn’t be surprised if Pietrus passes on his player option and at the same time I wouldn’t be surprised if he decides to remain in Phoenix.  He got almost no play time when he was traded and at the end of the year suffered and injury.  With the CBA lingering I could see him remaining in Phoenix and most likely being traded or he could simply enter free agency and decide himself.  Pietrus is a seasoned vet and is a solid swingman on both ends of the floor.

-Sam Young (TO): The Grizzlies are still in playoff contention and since Rudy Gay went down, it’s been Sam Young and Tony Allen at the 2 & 3 and they’ve stepped up big.  I would be surprised if the Grizz decided to let Young slip into free agency.  He’s still a young player and would be a solid role player on any team.

-Matt Barnes (PO): Matt Barnes has a small player option next season for the Los Angeles Lakers.  I’m not certain as to whether he’ll want to return next season.  I feel like Matt Barnes has a lot of better options to join teams that are in need of a small forward, unlike the Lakers (who although they’re playoff contenders) who are deep at the 3-spot (Ron Artest, Lamar Odom, Luke Walton).  If you remember, he was going to sign with the Raptors, before they had some financial troubles and he ended up in LA.  I could see him going somewhere where he’ll be able to get a lot more minutes (not necessarily a starter).  Barnes is a great lockdown defender and he would be welcomed with open arms to Minnesota.  He also has a decent three-point shot.

-James Jones (PO): James Jones of the Miami Heat.  Just the other day (in the playoffs) Jones dropped 25 in minimal time off the bench.  He’s a great three-point shooter who will almost certainly be back in Miami for another season.  Beyond his three-point shooting however, well, there’s not much to say.  If he did enter free agency, I could see the Wolves (a team who shot a lot of threes a season ago) at least taking a glance at him.

-Thaddeus Young (R): Beyond Wilson Chandler, this is one of the biggest free agent small forwards out there.  Thaddeus Young is only 22 years old and was an integral part of returning the 76ers back to the playoffs.  He’s an athletic point forward with a lot of different tools. The Wolves already have a player like Thad-Anthony Randolph.  However, Thaddeus is more of a threat all over the court.  I’d expect some teams to make a run at him, but the Sixers will likely match any offer to keep Young in Philly.

-Wilson Chandler (R): Probably the ‘best’ small forward free agent on the market this offseason.  He was a part of that big 13-player deal that sent Carmelo Anthony to the Knicks.  Chandler, now a member of the Denver Nuggets may or may not be in their future plans.  In the Melo deal, the Nuggets also received small forward Danilo Gallinari, who is less talented, but started, bringing Chandler off the bench.  Danilo is a big young potential, that I could see being one of the centerpieces of the Nuggets for years to come.  Chandler will most definitely get some offers to play for different clubs, but I’d expect the Nuggets to match any (non-ridiculous offer) and keep their sixth man.  Chandler is a big body that can play the three and the four.  He’s a solid shooter and does all the little things on both ends to help his team be successful.

-Tayshaun Prince: Tayshaun Prince had another season of turmoil in Detroit after years of successful runs to the playoffs.  He continually butted heads with head coach John Kuester and is almost certainly looking for a way out.  Prince’s name has been linked to a number of different teams this summer, the one most likely: the Dallas Mavericks.  Head coach Rick Carlisle was a former Piston assistant during Prince’s rookie season.  The veteran-friendly Mavs will be looking for a bit of an upgrade at the small forward: DEFENSIVELY.  Prince could be the answer.

-Caron Butler: Butler saw his season cut short after a season-ending injury that’s kept him sidelined now, for almost 4 months.  Butler does hope to return for the playoffs, however it’s seeming less likely.  As I write this the Mavs are, however, currently up against the Lakers leading the series 2-0.  Butler is a great veteran small forward that’ll bring a lot of intangibles on both ends that any team needs to be successful.  I’m not 100% certain he’ll be back with the Mavs next season, he may be a bit out of their price range.  However, with his injury-plagued season, he may have to lower his price or get no offers whatsoever, a lot of teams will certainly be hesitant because of that injury.

-Shane Battier: Battier was traded just before the deadline in a deal that sent the Grizzlies Hasheem Thabeet to the Houston Rockets for swingman and ex-Grizz Shane Battier.  Battier is actually a name that the Wolves community has been saying in a recent weeks.  Battier is the kind of veteran swingman that won’t demand a lot of play time, who would be happy as a role player, but at the same time is a very talented player.  He’s a great defender (something/one the Wolves REALLY need) a solid shooter and a capable player on both ends.  I can only hope the Wolves will get a chance to make him an offer or rather that they actually will!

-Andrei Kirilenko: Lifelong Jazz(er) Andrei Kirilenko is a free agent this offseason.  He’s been a fixture on the Jazz for quite some time now, however this past season may have been his last in Utah.  Since trading away all-star Deron Williams the Jazz are in a bit of a rebuilding stage (not really though, with players like: Al Jefferson, Devin Harris, Paul Millsap & Derrick Favors),  There’s been talk that Paul Millsap will be working this summer to become a small forward player.  To me, indications seem strong that Millsap will be the new starting small forward with Favors at the 4 and Big Al at the 5.  Kirilenko will certainly garner some interest as a long lanky defender who is will also get involved on the offensive end.  This could be another potential look for the TWolves.  However, my money is on the New Jersey Nets.  There Russian billionaire owner (I say that, cause I didn’t want to look up how to spell his name) is a good friend of fellow-Russian Kirilenko, they Nets are in need of a defensive presence and a solid starting small forward: there you go!

-Grant Hill: The Phoenix Suns have apparently found the fountain of youth with old superstars like Hill and Steve Nash.  Hill is 38 years old, but does he look it?  More importantly does he play like it?  Absolutely not!  Hill is a great wing and could get certainly get some offers this offseason.  One interesting team I could/would like to see him play for, is the Los Angeles Clippers.  The Clippers are in dire need of a starting small forward (Ryan Gomes just won’t cut it).  Beyond that, like a lot of these old veteran swingmen, I’d expect him to look to play for a championship contender.

-Peja Stojakovic: Peja-possibly the best shooter in the NBA?  I could go along with that.  He’s one of the best three-point shooter I’ve ever seen.  Peja is a great vet, who brings both veteran leadership and an incredible touch from almost anywhere on the court.  Peja was traded from New Orleans to Toronto, he was later ‘waived’ and eventually signed with the Dallas Mavericks.  He has gotten a few starts at the small forward next to Dirk Nowitzki.  He’ll definitely garner some interest from some of the championship contenders around the League.  

-Jason Kapono: Kapono is a solid three-point shooter and beyond that, well, no, that’s it.  If any team is looking for a floor-spreader who can knock down tough shots he’s your guy.  I don’t expect the Wolves to be looking to JK though.

-Jamario Moon: Moon was traded from the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Los Angeles Clippers in a deal that also featured Mo Williams and Baron Davis.  Moon is a role player, nothing more.  He’s an athletic player who can knock down some shots as well.  He should hook up with someone this offseason, I’m just not sure who.

-Al Thornton: Al Thornton was surprisingly waived by the Washington Wizards around the NBA Trade Deadline, he later signed with the Golden State Warriors and got some substantial minutes behind Dorell Wright.  Thornton will get plenty of offers this offseason, he’s a valuable reserve with a lot of athleticism.  He’s a versatile player, but he isn’t someone I see the Wolves going after.

-Earl Clark: Earl Clark was a small-part of the Phoenix-Orlando deal earlier this year (Vince Carter/Marcin Gortat/Mickael Pietrus for Jason Richardson/Hedo Turkoglu/Earl Clark).  He didn’t get a lot of play time with the Orlando Magic.  He’s a versatile young forward with upside.  The Magic are uncertain as to whether he’ll be back in Orlando this offseason.  

The Minnesota Timberwolves’ starting frontcourt are likely done for the season.  Kevin Love is still currently nursing a groin injury that has kept him out of 7 of the Wolves’ past 9 games.  Darko Milicic has missed 3 of the Wolves’ past 4 games, though he did return for 10 minutes in the game vs. the Suns before re-injuring his ankle.

The Timberwolves have tried a number of different lineups in an attempt to fill the void: Anthony Tolliver, Anthony Randolph and Michael Beasley have all started at some point for the Wolves in Love’s absence and Nikola Pekovic has absorbed the majority of the starting minutes in Darko’s absence.

According to Jerry Zgoda of the Star Tribune, neither of the Wolves starting frontcourt players will play Monday vs. the Suns and therefore, there would be no point in them returning for the Wednesday night finale vs. the Rockets back at the Target Center.

Minnesota has got some better contributions from Michael Beasley as well as from their reserves in Love’s absence.  In all 9 of their past games, Michael Beasley has scored in double-figures every night and has scored 20+ points in 5 of those 9 games.  In the past 5 games reserve Martell Webster has scored in double-figures in each game, playing between 20-35 minutes in those games.  Reserve forward Anthony Randolph got two starts, but in those 9 games he’s scored in double-digits 6 of those games.  As well as a new career-high 31 points, in his first start of the season vs. Dallas.  Reserve forward Anthony Tolliver has also seen a bump in minutes and he got two starts at the 4-spot and in the 9 games he’s scored in double-figures in all but 3 of them.

The biggest thing that’s been missing in Kevin Love’s absence has been the team’s rebounding.  Without the All-Star pulling in 10-25 a night, the Wolves have certainly struggled.  They aren’t the same team as the stats say: 1st overall in the NBA with 44.4rpg.  In fact in the seven games without Kevin Love the Wolves stats look like this: vs. DAL: 38-43DAL, vs. OKC 40-40, vs. BOS 42-49MIN, vs. MEM 34-44MEM, vs. NJN 46-37MIN, vs. PHO 44-38PHO, vs. DEN 38-49DEN.  In 4 of those games they’ve been out-rebounded and the Wolves have reached their 44.4rpg average or more just twice!

Overall, this may be good/bad news.  The Timberwolves are currently tied with the Cleveland Cavaliers for the worst record in the NBA: 17-63, which gives them a 22.5% chance of securing the top pick in June’s draft.  If they end with the worst record they’ll have a 25% chance and if they do better than the Cavs they’ll have a 19.9% chance of the top pick.  Obviously without their starting frontcourt, they have a decreased chance of losing games (pretty pathetic when you have to word it like that!).

The Timberwolves play Monday night versus the Phoenix Suns.  You can expect Darko and Love watching from the sidelines.  Tipoff is set for 9pmCT and a full-gameday preview can be found in the previous post on this site; a full gameday recap can be found here, following the final horn.  Thanks for reading, enjoy the game and GO WOLVES!

Anthony Tolliver and Anthony Randolph reserve forwards for the Minnesota Timberwolves have made the most of Kevin Love’s absence.  With Kevin Love out for 6 of the Wolves last 8 games, reserve forwards Anthony Randolph and Tolliver have stepped up to fill the void left on the boards and on the offensive end.

Anthony Randolph has started 3 of those 6 games Kevin Love has missed.  The first against the Dallas Mavericks, the next against the Dallas Mavericks and the last against the Boston Celtics.  In those first two games Randolph shined bright.  Against Dallas he dumped in 31 points (a new career-high) and added 11 rebounds.  Against Oklahoma City he contributed 24 points and 15 rebounds.  Then came the Boston game and with it some intense defensive prowess by that group of talented veterans.  They knew what Randolph did in the previous two games and they made it a point to stop him at every opportunity.  The Celts held Randolph to just 17 minutes as he got into foul trouble and he had just 3 points and 4 boards on the night.  Since then, he’s returned to the bench as a sixth man and the past two games, he’s been a big contributor.  Randolph went off for 20 points and 10 boards in 30 minutes in a narrow loss to the Nets.  Then the next night (yesterday) against Phoenix he scored 19 off the bench in 28 minutes.

Anthony Tolliver hasn’t let this opportunity go by the wayside either.  In those 6 games Love has recently missed the past few weeks.  Tolliver has stepped up, mostly in a reserve role for the T’Wolves.  He really stepped up in that game against the Celtics when Randolph had to sit with foul trouble.  Against Boston, Tolliver played 36 minutes and contributed 16 points and 15 rebounds.  The next night against Chicago Tolliver was once again a big contributor off the bench.  In 24 minutes he added 14 points on 5-of-7 shooting.  Against the Grizzlies he added 12 points and the following game against New Jersey he played 30 minutes and had 14 points and 5 boards.  Then came last night’s game against the Phoenix Suns, which marked Anthony Tolliver’s first start of the season for the Timberwolves and his 30th start of his career (last year he started 29 of 44 games he played for the Warriors).  In 39 minutes against Phoenix he had 10 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists.  Kurt Rambis said he needed someone to match up with Channing Frye and someone with a lot of mobility: Tolliver.

Both of these Anthony’s are somewhat of NBA journeymen in their short NBA careers.  Tolliver is only 25 years old and the Timberwolves mark his 4th NBA team in 3 years.  From ‘08-‘09 he played a small role for the Spurs (just 19 games) in ‘09-‘10 he played 44 games for the Warriors and 2 for the Portland Trailblazers, as well as spending some time in the NBA D-League.  Randolph is just 21 years old and is playing for his third NBA team since being selected 14th overall in the 2008 NBA Draft.  After two seasons and 96 games with the Golden State Warriors, Randolph was traded this summer to the New York Knicks along with Kelenna Azubuike and Ronny Turiaf for forward David Lee.  He quickly fell out of favor with Mike D’Antoni and was “banished” to the bench, playing minimally and in just 17 games.  Then, he came to the Timberwolves along with Eddy Curry (later waived and is currently in talks with the Heat to sign for the playoffs) in that blockbuster Carmelo Anthony deal, that sent reserve center Kosta Koufos to the Nuggets and Corey Brewer to the Knicks (later waived and signed by Dallas).  Since then he’s played in 20 games, starting 3.  Most people think, he’s got great potential and could/should be the Wolves starting center next season (in place of Darko Milicic).  A small sidenote, both of these players (Randolph & Tolliver) know each and have played with each other: last year with the Golden State Warriors!

Needless to say, both of these talented and young individuals have proven themselves to be valuable assets to the Wolves and should only get better!

With Love, who they say will most likely be held out the last 3 games (whether it’s for lottery sakes or not), I’d expect Tolliver and Randolph continue to split minutes and make the most of the opportunity.

The T’Wolves are back in action Saturday night versus the Denver Nuggets at the Pepsi Center, tipoff is set for 8:30pmCT and you can expect a full-gameday preview to be found on this site before then.  Until then, thanks for reading and GO WOLVES!