There has been a time that the Timberwolves were serious contenders. That stretch is best remembered when Kevin Garnett is still dominating. Although that scenario is a thing of the past, Minnesota is hoping that a resurgence will come very soon.
The emergence of Karl-Anthony Towns in Twin City is not without basis. Bagging the NBA's Rookie of the Year honors in 2016 is his introductory message to the rest of the league. In only his second season, the former University of Kentucky standout is already putting up eye-popping numbers with at least 22 points, 11 rebounds, 3 assists and 1.5 blocked shots per outing.
Towns's all-around brilliance is an indicator that he can indeed carry a team. His capability to score from three or at the post is something that keeps opposing players seriously concerned. At one stretch after the All-Star break, the 21-year old has been averaging 27.6 points and 15.4 caroms a game in eleven games.
With first-year mentor Tom Thibodeau still progressing his scheme, there is a lot to expect from this team. Judging from what the coach had done in Chicago, it is just a matter of time before Towns, Andrew Wiggins, Ricky Rubio, Zack Lavine blend into the new system.
Proofs that Thibodeau's process is actually working have surfaced in recent triumphs over powerhouse squads like Golden State, Utah and the LA Clippers. Karl-Anthony Towns has been a significant catalyst with the recent surge of the young Wolves. With that said, there is something in the 2015 first round draft pick that his teammates find exceptional.
More than a couple of hours prior to a game, it has been observed that Towns is already hitting short hook shots and long jumpers. According to second-year teammate Tyus Jones, the 7'0" emerging star is the first to arrive in a facility even though he is not playing. By the time, most of the team is already on the floor, Towns has already gone full swing in warming up.
It cannot be denied that Kevin Garnett's work ethics have an imposing influence on the young forward. Although the former Boston Celtic and Karl-Anthony Towns have only been together on the squad for a short time, the older player's effect is undeniable.
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