Game Preview #7 – Timberwolves vs. Hornets

Minnesota Timberwolves against Charlotte Hornets
Date: November 4, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. CST
Location: Target center
TV coverage: FanDuel Sports Network North
Radio reporting: KFAN FM/Wolves App/iHeart Radio

Okay, Wolves fans, buckle up, because it's officially time for a gut check in Minnesota. Tomorrow night the Timberwolves host the Charlotte Hornets at Target Center, and let's just say this game has all the makings of a must-win game – even if it's only the seventh game of the season.

To be fair, it's tempting to call San Antonio's loss a “scheduling L.” Arriving in San Antonio at 4:30 a.m. after an emotional, physical showdown with Denver is a brutal turnaround. Physically they had to be gassed. Emotionally? Completely deflated. But part of me – the part that still believes this team has the potential to be one of the best in the West – says, 'Hey, a superior team can still find a way to beat the Spurs.' Defense was virtually out of action and the offense couldn't get out of second gear. Julius Randle, I'm looking at you here. We've seen that he's the type of guy who can create his own shot and light a fire on offense, but against San Antonio he was basically a human turnstile. The Wolves simply need more from Big Julius.

So here we are, back on home soil, facing the Charlotte Hornets – a team that the Wolves should have no problem dealing with. But let's not forget: This is the same Hornets team that staged a massive comeback in Karl-Anthony Towns' 60-point game last season. This game is a chance to finally put these ghosts to rest.

The battle of the 2020 draft class: LaMelo Ball vs. Anthony Edwards

The big headline, of course, is the showdown between LaMelo Ball and Anthony Edwards, the top two picks from the 2020 draft. At the time, many people thought the Wolves made a mistake by selecting Ant over LaMelo, especially with Ball being the rookie of the year was awarded. Let's look at the present and no one doubts Minnesota's choice. But let's face it: these two will be linked for the rest of their careers, and every duel between them carries a little extra weight. Ant has had his moments this season, but he also had a difficult performance in the last game. This is his chance to show why he is the face of the Wolves and, without question, the crown jewel of the 2020 draft class.

No excuses – it’s time to show up

The Wolves have a lot to offer in this game. Falling below .500 would be a tough pill to swallow, especially when the expectations for this team were so high. Sure, we can talk about needing time to get to grips with new pieces like Randle and Donte DiVincenzo. We can talk about the ups and downs of getting everyone on the same page. But here's the thing: Those excuses don't hold water if they can't finish games they're supposed to win.

This is a unique opportunity for Wolves to make a statement, especially in front of their home crowd. They need to come out with energy, execute on both ends and avoid lapses in concentration that cause losing teams to hang around. The Target Center faithful deserve to see a team ready to dominate and fully committed to defending the home court.

Conclusion? The Wolves have a chance to get things going in the right direction here. Tomorrow's game isn't just about getting a win; it's about setting a tone. It's about making it clear to the league that the Wolves are more than just an up-and-down squad. They are a force to be reckoned with. And what less than a confident victory? Well, that's just not enough.