The Minnesota Timberwolves have been riding the early wave of some surprising defensive work. Averaging 8 steals and 8.5 blocks per game, the Wolves have so far held opponents to 89 points per game (good for 4th in the league). They’ve also hit the boards pretty hard, collecting 45 rebounds per contest (7th in the league). At 93.8 points per game, the Wolves seem to be hanging their hats on defensive stops and late-game comebacks.
Nonetheless, some more offense would certainly be welcome. Part of the problem looks to be a slow start from newly acquired (and un-retired) Brandon Roy. Though the fact that he’s even on the court is enough for most hoop-heads, Roy hasn’t been his normally electric self.
“I somewhat expected this,” Roy said. “The regular season is faster and more intense. Teams are putting their real defensive strategy out there, compared to the preseason. It’s going to take some time.”
–Via the Pioneer Press
Dragging along averages of 5.7 ppg, on just 26.6% shooting from the field, Roy hasn’t seen the kind of output we’re so used to getting from him. Ever among the game’s sharpest minds, Roy has found a way to contribute. He leads his team in assists, averaging 5.5 dimes per contest on just under 27 minutes per game.
Because it’s so early into the season, it’s safe to say that as long as his knees are ok, Roy will eventually find his shot. He’s been away from the game for a little while (retired in December, 2011) so the speed of the NBA regular season must be a tad bit overwhelming…initially. Though it’s hard to imagine he’ll return to his career average of 19 ppg, Roy has always had a very good jump shot. Knowing that, you can expect to see him progressively find his offensive rhythm.
Mohamed Abdihakim is a journalism student at Florida Atlantic University. He is a Phoenix Suns fan, who is not prepared for the possibility of Nash winning a title in a Lakers jersey. Mohamed is also a contributor at “Les Snobs”. Interests include International basketball, Mad Men, and blues music. Nearly all stats are credited to Hoopdata or Basketball-Reference.
Twitter handle: @Abdi_hakim
