The Minnesota Timberwolves almost beat the Houston Rockets in Game 1 of the Western Conference playoffs, but it wasn't because of what Karl-Anthony Towns did.
Karl-Anthony Towns should never ever ever ever again take fewer than 10 shots in a game. Ever.
— Matthew Coller (@MatthewColler) April 16, 2018
In 40 minutes of play, he only had eight points and 12 rebounds. He was 3-of-9 from the floor and 0-of-2 from deep. Most of the game, he seemed like a secondary option for the Timberwolves, and if they want any chance in this series that can't be the case.
During an episode of Inside the NBA, Hall of Famer Shaquille O'Neal says Towns needs to start being more aggressive and demand the ball.
“I know he's young but he's the man on the team and he needs to demand the ball. When they switch and a little guy plays him and all the guards tell him to clear out, you don't move. You say no, give me the ball so he can score or create for other players.”
There were many times where they would get a switch and Clint Capela would be on a guard. Every time the guard would drive the ball, there was usually not much success. If Capela is on a guard, that means Towns also has a mismatch and he needs to demand the ball during those situations. Sometimes he gets too comfortable behind the 3-point line and he forgets his strength is still inside.
The Timberwolves guards also need to recognize that and take advantage of the opportunity. Towns on a little guy is one of the big advantages they have in this series and they need to make full use of it if they want any chance of beating the Rockets.
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