"It doesn't look good" - Gilbert Arenas explains how the Timberwolves are thriving in this year's playoffs
They booted the Luka Doncic and LeBron James-led Los Angeles Lakers in just five games and are now just one win away from punching their ticket to a second straight Western Conference Finals, this time against a Stephen Curry-less Golden State Warriors.
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While Anthony Edwards definitely leads the charge for Minnesota, he is not alone. The spotlight is undoubtedly on "Ant-Man," but what's really a difference maker is their offseason addition of Julius Randle.
Randle has been criticized all season long
Randle's road wasn't smooth. He had a tough time finding his rhythm early in the season, getting used to Chris Finch's system and figuring out how to coexist with a high-usage star like Edwards. But now, when the lights are the brightest, he's doing exactly what the Timberwolves hoped he would.
"Beyblade" is averaging 23.3 points, 5.7 boards, and 6.0 dimes a contest, all while shooting efficiently and playing with the kind of poise that screams playoff basketball.
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The pace slows, half-court execution takes over, and your ability to create your own shot becomes the difference between moving on or going home. That's been Julius' bread and butter for years now, and Gilbert Arenas, the former Washington Wizards star, claims that this is exactly why the T-Wolves are thriving. While it isn't necessarily the prettiest way to play basketball, it works wonders when the pressure is the highest.
"It doesn't look good. I'mma just be honest with you, man. I'm a Laker fan, and they beat us, so I can't really speak on that series. But when you look at a team that can match the youth, it's a struggle basketball. I really don't think they do their chemistry. You know, because of the payoffs and the style of the game that they have to play, it fits (Julius) Randle better," Arenas pointed out in his appearance on "ALL THE SMOKE" podcast.
"Now the game is slower, you gotta get to the half-court, they're loading up on you, you gotta come to me. In regular season… he kinda got lost in the offense. His style is old-school style, iso, let me take advantage. That's playoff basketball," the Wizards icon added.
Randle wasn't always seen as the most natural fit next to Edwards, but now that the game is simplified and physical, his value for Coach Finch has skyrocketed. He's attacking mismatches, making smart reads, and giving the Wolves a steadying force in half-court sets — something they lacked last year.
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Minnesota wants to go all the way
They've been building toward this moment, gradually figuring out how to merge all that talent with the kind of toughness you need in May. Edwards is the face, but the rest of the team gives him the much-needed support.
Players like Jaden McDaniels and Rudy Gobert have stepped up when it mattered most. McDaniels' defense and timely buckets have swung momentum, while Gobert's interior presence has been on full display, especially in Game 5 against the Purple and Gold, when he dominated with a monstrous double-double of 27 points and 24 rebounds. Those contributions don't always grab headlines, but they're the kind of performances that win playoff games.
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The Timberwolves have a real identity now. They are deep, locked in and have a unique blend of youth, grit and ego. And if Randle keeps playing at this level, Minnesota might not just make noise — they might even go for the ultimate prize.
Related: "For a guy who get paid $300 million, he should be a Top 10 player...I don't think he a Top 30 player" - Oakley shreds Brown's historic contract
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Indianapolis Star
19 minutes ago
- Indianapolis Star
Can Fever still be a contender this season? 'You see it in spurts,' but that's not enough
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CBS News
an hour ago
- CBS News
McBride, Collier score 19 points apiece as Lynx beat Sky 91-68 and improve to 13-0 at home
Kayla McBride and Napheesa Collier scored 19 points apiece and the Minnesota Lynx dominated the middle quarters in a 91-68 win over the Chicago Sky on Tuesday night, improving to 13-0 in home games. Down 24-18 after one quarter, the Lynx outscored the Sky 29-14 in the second for a 47-38 lead at halftime. A 23-12 scoring edge in the third quarter made it 70-50 entering the fourth. Bridget Carlton had 11 points for the Lynx (21-4) and Alanna Sith and Courtney Williams each had 10. Backup point guard Natisha Hiedeman injured her ankle in the third quarter and finished the game on the bench. Kia Nurse, starting in place of the injured Ariel Atkins, scored 16 points to lead the Sky (7-16). Angel Reese had 11 points and 11 rebounds with nine turnovers, and Kamilla Cardoso added 10 points and 10 rebounds. The Lynx scored on 11 consecutive possessions to close the first half. Chicago held Collier, coming off a 36-point MVP performance at the All-Star game, scoreless in the first period and eight points, while McBride had 12 at halftime. Minnesota had 10 points off seven turnovers in the second quarter and finished with 20 on 23 Chicago miscues, the most the Lynx have forced this season. They also blocked eight shots, four by Collier. Smith opened the second half with a 3-pointer to extend the lead to 50-38, and McBride followed with another as the Lynx pulled away.
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Yahoo
WNBA Week 9 power rankings
The post WNBA Week 9 power rankings appeared first on ClutchPoints. As the WNBA entered the All‑Star break, culminating the first half of the 2025 season, Week 9 provides in a snapshot of a league defined by dominant front‑runners, rising challengers, and teams fighting to lay foundations for future success. In this in‑depth essay, we'll explore all 13 teams, weaving together records, key storylines, and what lies ahead once the second half begins. Minnesota Lynx stand as the gold standard—top-tier defense, top-tier offense, and a championship contender that has averted fatigue and kept winning through adversity. Phoenix Mercury have earned their place as a real threat, with a high-functioning core and no easy outs. New York Liberty, despite injuries, remain one of the league's best. Their return-to-form pace and upcoming player resurrections forecast a dominant post‑All-Star stretch. Seattle Storm wield the depth and veteran talent to surprise but must secure better results against peers. Indiana Fever ride a wave of confidence, led by Clark's return and a reenergized offense, though their defense needs attention. In the middle is a pack of teams riding recent surges. Washington, Atlanta, and Golden State each have strengths and recent success, yet inconsistent showings near the break suggest their ceiling might hover between playoffs and early exits. Las Vegas, while always dangerous, must reconcile its defensive frailties despite A'ja Wilson's brilliance. Los Angeles surprised, but they're still searching for consistency. Further down, Chicago, Dallas, and Connecticut are in clear rebuild mode—each showing glimmers of hope but needing cohesion and development to pivot fully. 1. Minnesota Lynx (20–4) Topping the standings with a stellar 20‑4 record, the Lynx stand as the league's benchmark at the midpoint. Their formidable defense—a league-best defensive rating and +9.7 point differential per 100 possessions—anchors their identity. Offensively, Napheesa Collier continues her MVP‐level campaign, supplemented by veteran scoring from Kayla McBride, Courtney Williams, and Alanna Smith. Minnesota shines on its home court (12–0), and its balanced elite play has positioned it as the top contender following last year's Finals run. The challenge post‑break will be maintaining this pace as rivals regroup and the schedule intensifies. 2. Phoenix Mercury (15–7) The Mercury remain perched at second with a well‑balanced 15‑7 mark. Alyssa Thomas continues to nudge her way into MVP and Defensive Player of the Year conversations, recording nearly triple‑double numbers and anchoring Phoenix's defense. Kahleah Copper provides scoring punch, and Satou Sabally's facilitation and defense boost the backcourt. Their recent three‑game win streak into the break highlights consistency, though they've shown vulnerabilities against elite teams. For Phoenix, the path forward depends on whether their team cohesion can sustain against the league's best. 3. New York Liberty (15–6) Heading into the break, New York leads the East and sits third overall at 15‑6. Their efficiency is elite—top‑in‑class shooting, scoring, and ball control season‑to‑date. The recent return of Finals MVP Jonquel Jones after an ankle injury adds dynamic scoring and rebounding, especially alongside Breanna Stewart. The anticipated mid‑season signing of Emma Meesseman, fresh off EuroBasket MVP honors, bolsters frontcourt depth and enhances their hopes for back‑to‑back titles. With a 9‑0 start when healthy and crests of momentum closing before the break, the Liberty enter the all‑star pause poised for a dominant second half. 4. Seattle Storm (14–9) Seattle has carved out a 14‑9 record behind a seasoned lineup anchored by Nneka Ogwumike, Skylar Diggins‑Smith, Jewell Loyd, and Ezi Magbegor. Their net rating reflects solid overall effectiveness, though they've suffered close losses to top teams. Defensive intensity and veteran leadership remain strengths, but they require greater consistency on offense. Seattle heads into the break sensing opportunity—an infusion of stability could move them firmly into championship threat status. 5. Indiana Fever (12–11) At 12‑11, the Fever are a thrilling case study in both star‑driven highs and frustrating inconsistency. Caitlin Clark's return from injury sparked an offensive eruption — 66 points in a half, a franchise record, and a 2‑1 run in Week 9. They also captured the Commissioner's Cup, defeating Minnesota without Clark in the final. Yet Clark's recurring groin issues and sophomore struggle weighed down momentum. Coach Stephanie White continues shaping identity around Clark and role players, but the Fever's ceiling will depend on her health and a stronger defensive framework. 6. Washington Mystics (11–11) The Mystics sit at .500 following a 3‑0 Week 9 surge, pushing solidly into playoff contention. Rookie Kiki Iriafen has been a revelation, earning All‑Star reserve and Rookie of the Year nods with 11.9 PPG and 8.5 RPG. Together with Sonia Citron, the Mystics' rebuild shows promising interior development. Their mid‑season form suggests they can challenge for seeding if they maintain defensive discipline and balance veteran scoring. Upcoming roster health and chemistry will determine playoff placement. 7. Atlanta Dream (13–9) Atlanta rounds out the top five with a 13‑9 record, sitting second in the East. Led by Rhyne Howard, Tina Charles, and Chennedy Carter, the Dream have demonstrated scoring potential but suffered inconsistency, splitting their last 10 games. A commanding 86‑49 win over Chicago moments before the break highlighted their ceiling, but injuries—most notably Howard's knee issue—cast shadows over their immediate future. If they can plug the gaps, Atlanta could stake a claim as the East's next power. 8. Golden State Valkyries (10–12) As WNBA newcomers, Golden State has surpassed expectations, sporting a 10‑12 record. A June 7‑2 run earned Coach of the Year buzz for Natalie Nakase. However, recent losses—including a late‑season three‑game skid—exposed their dependence on perimeter shooting (31 % from deep). Their gritty identity persists, but consistency remains a challenge. For the second half, the Valkyries must sustain their blend of pace and efficiency to remain a playoff dark horse. 9. Las Vegas Aces (11–11) Just behind Golden State, Las Vegas sits at 11‑11 thanks to an up‑and‑down stretch, despite A'ja Wilson's awe‑inspiring play—27.2 PPG, nearly 12 RPG, and elite blocks. Wilson has climbed the MVP ladder as Collier slightly cooled. Still, Vegas's defense has faltered, and injuries — like Wilson's wrist — have hindered cohesion. With depth acquisitions and renewed focus, the Aces can pivot from bubble team to elite threat quickly—Wilson provides the spark. 10. Los Angeles Sparks (8–14) The Sparks enter the break at 8‑14—a frustrating position given the talent they possess. Kelsey Plum remains the off‑season highlight, earning All‑Star starter as a sophomore and averaging over 21 PPG. Dearica Hamby, Azurá Stevens, and Cameron Brink (recently injured) provide high-end flashes. Efficiency is solid, but turnovers and poor screening have defined the season. A surprise pre‑break win streak shows potential; now L.A. must build structure around its stars to shift from rebuilding to competing. 11. Chicago Sky (7–15) Chicago's season is anchored by rookie Angel Reese, who leads the league in rebounds (12.6 rpg). They've improved recently, prior to the break going 4–3, including a win vs. Minnesota. Their future hinges on continuing this growth. Reorganizing under a rookie‑led core, Chicago struggles to keep pace with a 7‑15 record. Angel Reese has emerged as a force—12.6 RPG and a dominant stretch with 19.1 PPG over recent games. Reese's growth positions her as a legitimate candidate for Most Improved Player. Despite her brilliance, team shooting and defensive rotation lag, and late‑release acquisitions haven't turned the tide. Chicago's future hinges on Reese's continued progression and system cohesion. 12. Dallas Wings (6–17) Dallas has been inconsistent, getting off to a poor start followed by a mid-season streak, only to collapse again, dropping their last three by double digits. Paige Bueckers made the All‑Star team, signaling promise, but stability continues to elude them. Before the break, Dallas stood at 6‑17, emblematic of a team in reconstruction. Bueckers has been dazzling, averaging 18.4 PPG and 5.4 APG while being selected as an All‑Star starter in her first season. Still, defensive woes persist for the Wings (11th in D‑rating), and key injuries have hindered depth. A 4‑6 stretch mid‑season offered glimpses, but this ship lacks balance. Dallas's mission post‑break: Establish guard continuity around Bueckers and build a system capable of winning in close games. 13. Connecticut Sun (3–19) Connecticut remains at the bottom with just three wins. However, signs of life—like a season highlight win over Seattle, improved defensive effort, and the addition of French guard Leila Lacan—suggests they're laying groundwork. This rebuild may yield deeper dividends in due time. Sitting at the bottom of the league with a 3‑19 record, the Sun face a steep climb. A thorough offseason rebuild saw most veterans depart. Lacan offers hope, averaging 11 PPG in her first four games, showing defensive tenacity. A season‑highlight 10‑point upset of Seattle underscores their competitive flashes. With uncertainty off‑court, including possible relocation, the Sun must remain resilient and use the break to find consistency and develop young talent. As teams return July 23, attention will turn to injury returns (Jones, Jones, etc.), rookie development (Bueckers, Reese, Iriafen), and mid-season adjustments. Minnesota and Phoenix will likely lead the narrative. But don't sleep on Chennai Clark's Fever or the dangerous veterans in Seattle and Washington. The middle pack—Atlanta, Golden State, Las Vegas, New York—will battle for positioning. Meanwhile, Sparks, Sky, Wings, and Sun will look to steady the ship and build on momentum. Week 9's power rankings reflect a league defined by dominant frontrunners, ascendant challengers, and hopeful underdogs. With talent across the board—from elite veterans to breakout rookies—the post‑All‑Star stretch promises fireworks. Titles and playoff berths feel far from decided; this NBA-style parity ensures every game matters from here to the Finals.
