The Minnesota Timberwolves delivered a bombshell to the Northwest division, officially adding LaMelo Ball to their roster. This isn’t some small shake-up; we are talking about a seismic shift. Last season, the Warriors got absolutely OWNED by Minnesota, with a dismal 1-3 record against them that helped drag the Dubs into the play-in tournament. If you thought that was rough, just wait, because the Wolves are about to make life a whole lot harder for everyone else.
Minnesota’s New Starting Five Is Straight Fire
So, the Wolves missed out on LeBron James, but they didn’t waste time making other insane moves. They plugged the hole left by Naz Reid’s departure with a two-year, $13 million flier on Jonathan Kuminga. Remember him? He’s stepping in for Julius Randle and Reid, who got moved this summer. Now, this starting five? It is being called the best in the NBA, and when you look at it, you know why:
- LaMelo Ball: Playmaker / Scorer
- Anthony Edwards: Scorer / Athleticism
- Jonathan Kuminga: Versatility / Athleticism
- Jaden McDaniels: Elite Defender / Versatility
- Rudy Gobert: Rim Protector / Rebounder
That lineup is just unfair, right? Ball gives Minnesota a shot creator they have never had running next to Edwards, pairing two players capable of turning any given night into pure chaos. The Wolves now possess the most exciting backcourt in the NBA, and honestly, probably the most unpredictable too. LaMelo Ball is actually HIM, no joke.
Jonathan Kuminga: Chip On His Shoulder, Ready to Ball
Kuminga is the presumptive starter, sliding right into that power forward spot, and you know he has a chip on his shoulder. With career averages of 12 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists over four seasons in Golden State before a half-season stint in Atlanta, he still needs to prove himself in this league. But listen, getting a player with his athleticism and skill for such a cheap deal is absolutely huge for the Timberwolves’ aspirations this season. Yeah, there are still some question marks on the defensive end, and figuring out his best place in a winning culture will be key, but the raw talent is undeniable. With Edwards and Ball running the show at what is bound to be a high-octane pace, Kuminga should be able to slot in as a freak athlete streaking towards the basket and causing havoc.
On paper, the Wolves are dangerous, period. Let’s not forget they eliminated Golden State in the second round two seasons ago on their way to back-to-back conference finals appearances. Edwards is already in “face of the league” conversations, and Ball brings that dynamic offensive organizer who can create for others, manipulate defenses, and remove some of the burden from Edwards. The rest of the Northwest division better strap in, because this team just became a certified problem.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Golden State of Mind.
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