Minnesota Timberwolves struggling after Karl-Anthony Towns trade: Former NBA champion weighs in

The Minnesota Timberwolves, who reached the Western Conference Finals just months ago with Anthony Edwards leading the charge, are now struggling to maintain their footing in the current

NBA season

. Despite entering the year with high expectations, the team’s recent slump—losing four of their last six games, including two consecutive defeats to the Portland Trail Blazers and a loss to the 4-12 Toronto Raptors—has raised concerns about their trajectory.
This rocky start has prompted NBA analyst and former champion Kendrick Perkins to weigh in with sharp criticism. Speaking on ESPN, Perkins remarked, “This is exactly who they are, a Play-in team.” His statement has sparked discussions among fans and analysts about whether the Timberwolves are falling short of their potential or merely experiencing a temporary rough patch.

The Impact of trading Karl-Anthony Towns

One major factor contributing to the Timberwolves’ struggles is the departure of Karl-Anthony Towns. While the trade made financial sense, its on-court impact has been less favorable. Without Towns, the team seems to lack the cohesion and offensive rhythm that propelled them to the conference finals last season. Perkins’ comments align with this sentiment, suggesting that the Timberwolves’ current performance might reflect their true capabilities rather than a fleeting slump.

Rudy Gobert under fire for the Timberwolve's poor performance

Much of the criticism has centered on Rudy Gobert, the Timberwolves’ four-time Defensive Player of the Year. Perkins urged Gobert to stick to his strengths rather than trying to expand his offensive game. “It’s so frustrating. Respect to Rudy, a four-time Defensive Player of the Year. Do your damn role, man!” Perkins exclaimed.
He elaborated on Gobert’s role, emphasizing the need for him to focus on defense, rebounding, and setting screens. “Your role is to block shots, rebound, and screen and get to the dunker’s spot,” Perkins explained.

Anthony Edwards shows frustration

The Timberwolves’ rising star, Anthony Edwards, has also shown visible frustration with his teammate’s performance. Perkins pointed to a specific instance during a game when Edwards yelled at Gobert because of a misaligned play. The isolation was designed to create space for Julius Randle to attack the rim, but Gobert’s positioning disrupted the flow.
“So many times last postseason, we watched Rudy – he’s asking for the ball on the post. We don’t wanna see that as fans. Your teammates don’t want to see it,” Perkins added, calling attention to Gobert’s tendency to demand the ball in situations where it isn’t warranted.
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The Timberwolves’ recent struggles raise important questions about the team’s future. With Anthony Edwards poised for stardom, the team must address its internal issues to maximize its potential. Whether this involves redefining roles or finding new ways to integrate players like Gobert remains to be seen.
For now, fans and analysts alike will continue to monitor the Timberwolves as they navigate the challenges of a post-Towns era. If these problems persist, they may indeed find themselves fighting for a Play-in spot rather than contending for a deep playoff run.