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Timberwolves chemistry issues bubble to surface as Rudy Gobert pouts mid-game

Did Minnesota trade the wrong big man away?
ByJoseph Kallan|
Nov 13, 2024; Portland, Oregon, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert (27) is introduced before the game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-Imagn Images
Nov 13, 2024; Portland, Oregon, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert (27) is introduced before the game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-Imagn Images | Soobum Im-Imagn Images

Tensions flared in Minnesota during last nightā€™s 110-105 loss to the Toronto Raptors, as an on-court disagreement between Julius Randle and Rudy Gobert highlighted growing chemistry issues within the Timberwolves.

With under five minutes left in the fourth quarter of a tie game, Gobert called for the ball in the paint to exploit a perceived mismatch. However, Randle, positioned at the top of the key, opted for an isolation play, ignoring Gobertā€™s request. This miscommunication led to an offensive three-second violation, visibly frustrating Gobert. After the play, Anthony Edwards confronted Gobert, seemingly unhappy with his reaction during such a critical moment.

The tension boiled over later in the quarter when Randle grabbed a rebound and quickly pushed the ball up the court before passing to Gobert under the rim, almost challenging him to ā€œprove him wrong.ā€ Gobert fumbled the catch and turned the ball over, sealing the game for Toronto and leaving Timberwolves fans concerned about the state of the team.

Things are night right with the Minnesota Timberwolves

Minnesota has struggled recently, losing four of their last six games and sliding to the 10th seed in the West. The issues arenā€™t limited to on-court disputes; the teamā€™s offensive flow has been disturbed by Randleā€™s ball-dominant style. Knicks fans once criticized this same trait for stifling Jalen Brunsonā€™s growth, and now it appears to be limiting ball movement in Minnesota's offense.

Adding to the frustration, offseason acquisition Donte DiVincenzo has been inefficient, shooting just 34.8 percent from the field and 32.4 percent from 3-point range. His lack of production has further strained a team looking to establish its identity after significant roster changes, one that would hope to be for the better.

While the Timberwolves are still adjusting to a new dynamic, the teamā€™s recent struggles and internal conflicts risk derailing their season if not addressed quickly. Whether itā€™s a matter of early-season growing pains or deeper systemic issues, Randle and Gobert must come together to avoid squandering their potential to make another deep playoff run.

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