Why The Timberwolves Must Keep Up With Opponents' Pace

Minnesota has an extremely high ceiling for the team, as they could beat any team in the league. This is evidenced by their success against good teams like the Denver Nuggets and the OKC Thunder. 

While the Timberwolves can always rely on their talent to get them over the edge, they must put in a concerted effort. This was most prominent during the fourth quarter of the game against the Orlando Magic when Donte DiVincenzo sparked the run to win the game.

A Hard-Working Timberwolves Team Is Hard To Beat

After the disappointing result against Indiana, opinions bounced around about Minnesota's commitment. They were not as locked as most people expected, considering they were on an eight-game winning streak.

DiVincenzo got asked after the game regarding the requirements against such a fast-paced team like Indiana.

"They like to play fast one way. When there are opportunities to run back at them, take those opportunities and at the same time, when you get the lead, pick apart the defense," Donte said after the loss to Indy. "A team like that that is just pushing in transition, we're losing our focus, we have to get back to load up and be ready."

That kind of mindset is what the Timberwolves need as they continue to compete against the best teams in the league. Of course, they must also show some respect to underdogs because that is what surprised them against the Pacers.

The Timberwolves Can Always Hang With Any Team

When they play with good energy, anything is possible with the Minnesota team. They already have the talent as Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle lead the charge. The intangibles matter, so every player must put in the time and effort to help the team win.

Energy has always been a big part of what Finch wants to see from his team. When everyone is locked in, they can completely dominate any team. 

High-energy play makes the team play at a faster pace. That is when the Timberwolves are at their best because they can take advantage of their elite athletes like Ant and Jaden McDaniels.

At the same time, they must have self-control when playing with high energy. They can always be the energetic bunch, but if they do not have the composure, that will be useless. 

"We didn't play a smart game overall. Everything we did I feel was self-inflicted," Randle said after the loss to Indiana.

Thinking about that after the game is a good reflection on where the team is. They can make mistakes, but they will always bounce back strong with an eye on resolving the issues they must deal with.

It is a tough balance to strike, but the Timberwolves have the talent, leadership, and coaching to do so. This team has a limitless ceiling, and it is up to them to find ways of reaching it.