Can Kevin Love And Ricky Rubio Lead Timberwolves To The Playoffs?
Ricky Rubio has been one of the most dynamic players in the NBA since he came over from Spain this past summer. His counterpart, Kevin Love from UCLA, has been equally as good, posting up big numbers all season long. At the break, Minnesota sits one game out of the playoffs. With about thirty games to go, can the Timberwolves make it to the playoffs this season?
Minnesota currently sits at 17-17, one game behind the Portland Trailblazers for eight place in the Western Conference, and just three games behind the Los Angeles Lakers for fifth place. With a lot of basketball left to be played in a short amount of time, each game is equally important as the next.
Minnesota has played its fair share of top teams so far, going 9-12 against teams with winning records. The T’wolves have struggled against weaker opponents, and ones whom they should beat if they want to make the playoffs. They are just 8-5 in those games. They are also an even .500 at home, 10-10, and an even .500 on the road at 7-7.
For Minnesota to make the playoffs, a second scorer needs to step up to compliment Kevin Love’s 25 points per game. Rubio? Michael Beasley? Nikola Pekovic? Those three are averaging about 35 points a game between them, but that number needs to become 40-45 if they want to have a chance to make the playoffs.
Teams have been focusing on Love, and it has shown in a few games. He’s been able for the most part to get out of double teams, but still has much to learn.
Secondly, their offense needs to make things happen off the dribble. The Timberwolves are only 26th in the NBA in assists at a measly 18.7 per game. When you have Ricky Rubio on your team, that should be a lot higher. Don’t blame Rubio though, he averages a team high 8.4 per game. Luke Ridnour or Jose Barea must do a better job when they are in the game.
Lastly, there defense needs to improve, even if just a smidgen. They are scoring 96.8 points per game, but that does not mean much when you are giving up 95.6 per game.
If the TImberwolves can correct these three things, I have no doubt Minneapolis will be celebrating come playoff time.
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