Holiday wish list for every NBA team

Minnesota Timberwolves

If only the Minnesota Timberwolves played in the Eastern Conference. If they did, making the playoffs would not be illogical. Geographically, the Timberwolves are not that much further west than the Chicago Bulls or Milwaukee Bucks. They could conceivably be considered and Eastern Conference team. It is no secret that the Timberwolves are a season or two away from competing for a playoff berth, but that is only because they play in the West. Their 5-6 record against the teams in the East suggests that they can handle their own.

If you can draft a team for its potential, Minnesota would be at the top of the list. Last year’s top draft choice Andrew Wiggins is looking like a future star with each game. This year’s top pick Karl Anthony Towns is proving worthy of all the buzz he generated at the end the last college season. Together, they will be a force to reckon with for years to come.

The most surprising element about the Timberwolves is the fact that guard Zach LaVine is still learning how to play the NBA game. If he eventually gets it, and most people think that he will, he could turn out to be what Shaun Livingston was projected to become prior to his devastating injury.

Unlike in Philadelphia, where there are no veterans to lean on, Minnesota has Kevin Garnett. He has made a big difference in their locker room. Look at LaVine’s numbers before Garnett’s arrival, and afterwards.

Next: New Orleans Pelicans: Patience