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Timberwolves’ focus on pace needs to be seen in the half-court, not just transition

The Timberwolves are primed to push the pace, but this shift needs to be seen in the half-court as well as in transition.

Published: Friday, 2 October 2026 at 1:00 PM
Timberwolves’ focus on pace needs to be seen in the half-court, not just transition
Key Things to Know
  • Dunking with Wolves argues the Timberwolves must play faster and make quicker decisions in the half-court.
  • The article notes Minnesota ranked fourth in isolation possessions and 10th in average possession time last season.
  • Writer Eamon Cassels states that new addition LaMelo Ball provides the quick playmaking Minnesota previously lacked.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Dunking with Wolves argues that the Minnesota Timberwolves must translate their intended faster pace into rapid half-court decision-making, rather than relying solely on transition offense. With the additions of LaMelo Ball and Jonathan Kuminga alongside Anthony Edwards, writer Eamon Cassels suggests Minnesota has the playmaking and athleticism needed to avoid last season's predictable, slow isolation possessions.

Cassels highlights that Minnesota ranked fourth in isolation possessions last year, often struggling against elite defenses like the Thunder and Spurs. The author contends that Ball's quick decision-making will help head coach Chris Finch implement a free-flowing offense and unlock the team's offensive ceiling.

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