The Minnesota Timberwolves are coming off a frustrating loss 109-97 loss to the Miami Heat. The Timberwolves got off to a slow start and were ultimately unable to close the double-digit lead the Heat held over them throughout the game.
Timberwolves superstar Jimmy Butler has not been shy about voicing his displeasure with the team's lackadaisical defense all year long. However, power forward Taj Gibson is not ready to press the panic button just yet, according to Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic
“It's one game. You can't fly off the handle. … Still young. Still learning each day. I'm positive about the outcome we'll have.”
Gibson's optimism is certainly surprising given the Timberwolves currently boast one of the worst defensive ratings in the league (107.5). Although Butler has taken responsibility for the team's defensive woes, their struggles clearly go beyond the three-time NBA All-Defensive Second Team member. As a result, Minnesota has had to rely on their high-powered offense that currently ranks sixth in the league in offensive rating (107.1).
Among the notable ‘Big 3' teams, the Timberwolves are among the youngest. That said, they were expected to go through some growing pains early on, especially defensively. Fortunately, the Timberwolves still have plenty of time to get things situated before turning their attention to the Western Conference playoffs.
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