2018-19: Western Conference playoff picture prediction

#6 Minnesota Timberwolves

No more smiles in Minnesota?

The chemistry problems that were exposed this summer will hurt the Timberwolves. I wouldn't be surprised if they missed the playoffs, but I trust when the game is on the line Butler and Thibodeau will focus on the game and the game only.

If Butler is able to stay healthy the entire season, the team will win a lot of games, he is a difference maker with his strong two-way game and his intense work ethic. After he got injured last year, the Timberwolves' level of play dropped drastically and were fortunate to grab the 8th seed. Andrew Wiggins needs to be consistent. If you watch Wiggins play, you will notice his lack of aggression attacking the basket and his one-dimensional game.

He needs to develop other aspects of his game to help the Wolves. He has talent, no one is denying he is a talented player. He just isn't showing it, and as a result is getting a lot of backlash from analysts and media for not being the "Canadian Lebron" that was dubbed in high school. Obviously those expectations were ridiculous, he's only 23 and still could become an All-Star at some point, but for now, he needs to become a better defender, passer, and rebounder.

Karl Towns has the potential to be one of the best big men in the league, but he will never achieve that potential if he doesn't improve defensively. Many expected the additions of Butler and Thibodeau to rub off on him defensively, but it hasn't happened....yet. Towns have shown flashes that he could be a good defender, but he needs to work harder and become a more two-way player.

The team can't only rely on Butler to carry the defensive load. Overall the team has talent and All-Star names on their roster, but they need to stay healthy, be consistent, and improve defensively.