Timberwolves media day: Excitement begins anew

Good times.

December 9, 2011 at 10:14PM
(The Minnesota Star Tribune)
(The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Here are five quick takeaway from Timberwolves media day:

*People are going to like Rick Adelman. He's direct. He's proven. And most importantly, he knows how terrible the Wolves were last year, particularly on defense. This will be a point of emphasis, it seems, with every player. Kevin Love said it was the first thing the two of them talked about in their initial meeting.

*Speaking of Love, he looks completely different. We knew he lost 25 pounds. We did not know 20 of those pounds were in his face. Seriously, he looks cut. He also sounds focused and mature. (Picture taken by us. Sorry there's another guy's head in there, too. We do what we can).

*We spent a good 20 minutes searching the archives for the 2010-11 or 2009-10 version of "The Wolves are going to be better this year" posts, but we couldn't find them. So we'll just say it again. Finally, for once, the Wolves might be better this year. In a 66-game season, we'd take 25 wins. And we wouldn't be surprised if they pushed a bit bast that number. But only by a little.

*The news that Martell Webster is out indefinitely after surgery in September is potentially a big deal. For all the youth and new bodies the Wolves have -- as well as depth at small/power forward -- shooting guard is still an area that's up in the air. There could be some interesting lineups.

*Ricky Rubio is charming. There is no other logical conclusion. If he can play even a little, prepare to fall in love.

about the writer

about the writer

Michael Rand

Columnist / Reporter

Michael Rand is the Minnesota Star Tribune's Digital Sports Senior Writer and host/creator of the Daily Delivery podcast. In 25 years covering Minnesota sports at the Minnesota Star Tribune, he has seen just about everything (except, of course, a Vikings Super Bowl).

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