Game Preview #10 – Timberwolves vs. Heat

Minnesota Timberwolves against Miami Heat
Date: November 10, 2024
Time: 6:00 p.m. CST
Location: Target center
TV coverage: FanDuel Sports Network North
Radio reporting: Wolves App/iHeart Radio

The Minnesota Timberwolves appear to have finally made their breakthrough, rattling off three straight wins. Sure, it was against the likes of the Hornets, Bulls and Trail Blazers, but hey, momentum is momentum. Next? A real test: The Miami Heat are coming to town. This is not just any enemy; We’re talking about a matchup that gets Timberwolves fans excited every time Jimmy Butler returns to Target Center, even if he doesn’t always appear on the court. With a chance to extend their streak, the Wolves will need to bring the same fire they showed against Portland last night.

Against the Blazers, we saw perhaps the Wolves’ most complete performance this season. They controlled the game from start to finish and achieved a blowout where the lead was over 20 points for most of the game. Anthony Edwards was on another level, drilling nine three-pointers and finishing the game with a smooth 37 points. And although he publicly set a goal of reaching 40, he didn’t get there last night – largely because he spent the fourth quarter relaxing on the bench. Julius Randle delivered another solid game with more than 20 points, quickly building one of the most explosive scoring duos in the league. If Edwards and Randle continue firing at full speed, the Wolves could finally have the firepower they lacked against Dallas last season.

But let’s not jump to the Mavs just yet – first we have Miami. The Heat limp to Minnesota, losing three straight games to the Kings, Suns and Nuggets. With three of the Heat’s best players listed as game-winning players – Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kevin Love and yes, Jimmy Butler – you know they’re hungry. Butler in particular should try to break this skid. He’s avoided the notoriously hostile crowd at Target Center a few times before, but I’m betting this time he’ll tie up his shoelaces and speak up. He’s exactly the kind of player who enjoys playing spoilsport, and his old Minnesota crowd will only motivate him even more.

For the Wolves, this matchup comes down to two things: fundamentals and defense. The Heat can score, especially when Butler and Tyler Herro are out there and shooting. They have the star power to match Edwards and Randle shot for shot, but the Wolves should have the edge in depth. Minnesota’s second unit – consisting of NAW, Naz and DDV – was rock solid and is arguably the best bench in the league. That depth will be crucial, especially in a game where every possession can count.

But it’s not just about scoring. The Wolves have had a problem allowing easy baskets, a recurring issue that needs to be addressed if they want to be a serious contender. Last night’s game against Portland was a promising step in the right direction. Minnesota showed intensity on defense, setting the tone early and making it clear they were in control. They’ll need more of that against Miami, especially considering how desperate the Heat are to end their losing streak.

If Wolves can play with discipline, be energetic in defense and take care of business in transition, they should be in good shape to pick up another win. And let’s be honest: this game could be a good one for them. With a win, the Wolves would reach .700 – a pretty impressive mark considering the ups and downs to start the season. They come together and show glimpses of a team that could be not only exciting, but legitimately special.

So Timberwolves fans, buckle up. If Minnesota is serious about becoming a top team in the West, they need to take care of business here. Beat Miami, continue to build on that consistency and show that they are ready to take on the big dogs. This period of the game is a great opportunity, but it is time to reinforce it on the pitch.