Timberwolves Struggle Defensively One Week Into NBA Season
The Minnesota Timberwolves are facing early-season challenges, particularly on the defensive end, just one week into the 2025-26 NBA season, raising concerns about their championship aspirations.
Historically a defensive powerhouse under Head Coach Chris Finch and President of Basketball Operations Tim Connelly – ranking 10th, 1st, and 6th in fewest points allowed per possession over the past three years – Minnesota currently sits at 27th in that same metric. Losses to the Los Angeles Lakers and Denver Nuggets highlighted these struggles, with opponents exploiting slow rotations and a lack of defensive intensity. The team’s defensive woes come at a critical juncture as the Western Conference remains fiercely competitive.
The Timberwolves’ third-quarter defense has been particularly problematic, allowing 137.4 points per 100 possessions – the third-worst in the NBA. This contrasts sharply with their previous success, where they held opponents to just 103.4 points per 100 possessions in the third quarter two seasons ago. Finch expressed his frustration after Monday’s loss to Denver, directly challenging key players Jaden McDaniels and Rudy Gobert to “set the tone” defensively. “We need more for our All-Defensive guys to set the tone at the point of attack and at the rim,” he stated. The team’s struggles are compounded by the recent injury to star Anthony Edwards, who is expected to be re-evaluated in a week, potentially sidelining him for a longer period. You can find more information about common hamstring injuries here.
Amidst these challenges, Julius Randle’s versatility is emerging as a potential stabilizing force. Randle led the team with 4.7 assists per game last season and is being increasingly relied upon for both scoring and playmaking in Edwards’ absence. Finch praised Randle’s ability to operate effectively across the floor, stating, “I think it is a lot of fun to coach him right now, because you can put him actually all over the floor.” Randle’s increased role is a temporary solution, but the team will need to address its defensive issues to contend for a title, as discussed in a recent Q&A with Coach Finch here.
The Timberwolves will continue to evaluate their defensive strategies and player rotations as they navigate Edwards’ injury and seek to regain their defensive identity.
