News
Omier backed out of a two-way deal with Minnesota to join Cleveland. The Wolves should still spend the open spot on frontcourt size, because the Spurs game showed how thin it is.
Analysis
Milwaukee gives up the third-highest share of shots at the rim and forces fewer turnovers than any defense in the league. After a 2-for-10 night in San Antonio, Ball's drive is Monday's best play.
Analysis
Victor Wembanyama scored 43 in San Antonio's 121-111 win. The Wolves should start their response with the 16 offensive rebounds they allowed.
Analysis
San Antonio has allowed 49.7% shooting on twos and 39.4% on threes. Minnesota should use Ball to create perimeter chances before challenging Wembanyama inside.
Analysis
Hyland has played eight minutes a night so far. Last spring, when Edwards sat, he played 25 a night and made 38% of his threes. If Ayo Dosunmu moves into the starting five, the second unit needs him again.
Analysis
Golden State has allowed 62.7% shooting on twos and sits 28th in defensive rebounding. Minnesota's first game without Edwards should run through Rudy Gobert, Joan Beringer and the paint.
Analysis
Both teams shot 23 free throws in Cleveland. The Cavaliers made 17, the Wolves made 14 and lost by two in overtime. Through four games, Minnesota is the worst free-throw shooting team in the league.
Analysis
Shams Charania says Edwards will miss up to two months after a right-knee procedure. Minnesota should give Ayo Dosunmu and Terrence Shannon Jr. more work instead of asking LaMelo Ball to replace Ant.
Analysis
Ball has picked up exactly four fouls in each of Minnesota's three wins and played 68 minutes in all. Margins of 22 to 25 points mean it has cost the Wolves nothing yet.
Analysis
I'd use Harden's assignment as a screener and make Cleveland choose its help. His cold shooting is no reason to give him an easy night at the other end.
Analysis
Finch welcomed the intensity of Minnesota's September workouts. That standard should reward useful bench minutes and survive a young player's mistakes.
Analysis
Minnesota has won 10 straight home openers. I want that reliability to last beyond Sunday, after a 26-15 home record last season.
Analysis
Five three-point attempts in Orlando offered the right blueprint. Minnesota needs Lyles willing to shoot alongside its centers, with rebounding keeping those minutes worthwhile.
Analysis
Orlando made 29 of 45 shots inside the arc. I'd demand better containment before treating Minnesota's 93 points allowed as proof the defense is settled.
Analysis
Minnesota beat Orlando 115-93 with Edwards shooting 5-for-23. The shared work on the glass is the part of this win worth demanding again.
Analysis
The Raptors arrive Sunday after forcing 23 Washington turnovers. Minnesota should keep attacking, with an outlet close enough to punish the help.
Analysis
The referees explained why Ball's Miami stepback was illegal. Finch should demand cleaner footwork while keeping his point guard aggressive.
