The Minnesota Timberwolves have reached the Western Conference Finals for the second consecutive season, clinching their spot with a decisive 4-1 series victory over the Golden State Warriors in the Semi-Finals.
This achievement marks significant progress for the franchise, which had previously reached the Conference Finals only once in 2004 during the Kevin Garnett era before breaking through last season.
Despite their impressive run, NBA journalist Chris Mannix has raised questions about the level of competition the Timberwolves have faced so far in the playoffs, suggesting their path might have been relatively unchallenging.
“I think the jury’s still out if they are better, because they’ve caught some breaks. They beat the Lakers, which, as excited as we were about them going into the playoffs, it’s clear they are a deeply flawed team,” Mannix said.
Mannix pointed out specific weaknesses in Minnesota’s playoff opponents that potentially made their journey easier.
The Lakers, whom they defeated in the first round, struggled with roster depth issues and played without a true center. Meanwhile, the Warriors played four games without superstar Stephen Curry and lost all of them.
“Then they get Golden State, which loses Steph Curry early in the series, not their fault, you play the teams that are in front of you,” Mannix added.
According to Mannix, last year’s playoff journey actually presented stiffer competition for the Timberwolves, who had to overcome the star-studded Phoenix Suns and the defending champion Denver Nuggets.
“But the team from last year broomed Phoenix in the first round and then won a dog fight with the defending champs [Nuggets] seven game series. That team was battle tested,” he explained.
This perspective raises interesting questions about Minnesota’s true standing among the elite teams in the Western Conference.
While their consecutive Conference Finals appearances demonstrate consistency, the quality of opposition faced becomes a factor in evaluating their championship readiness.
Mannix believes the upcoming Conference Finals, where the Timberwolves will face either the Nuggets again or the Oklahoma City Thunder, will be the true measuring stick for this team’s potential.
“That team was as good, if this makes sense, as a conference finalist should be. I don’t know if this team is there yet. This is the series where we find out if they are better,” Mannix stated.
The Timberwolves have shown significant promise this season, building a cohesive roster around Anthony Edwards that excels with physical, direct, and energetic play. Their complementary pieces have meshed well to create a formidable unit.
Having never reached the NBA Finals in franchise history, Minnesota now stands at a critical juncture. This season presents their best opportunity yet to prove they’re ready to take that next significant step toward championship contention.
