I’ve heard all the Mark Madsen jokes, and I’ll make no brief for the guy’s exalted skills and coordination. But in two losses of the sort that Kevin McHale always describes as potentially defining a season and a mindset if they happen too early and too often, the blame had been laid on a lack of trust and too much relaxation generating a lack of follow-through. I can tell you that Madsen won’t gamble foolishly–he’ll deliver the scheme with utterly trustworthy fidelity. I can also tell you that there will be nothing relaxed about the way Mad Dog boxes out or conducts his interior rotations. Maybe that’s why his plus/minus totals are always surprisingly strong.
As noted, there were some bright spots for Minnesota. Corey Brewer continues to struggle with his shot, but has not only strengthened his rebounding, he’s also a noticeably smarter player. He recognizes offensive opportunities quicker and makes better decisions with the basketball, frequently finding teammates in scoring position. That jumper may never develop, but with his defensive tenacity and comfort finishing in the open court, Brewer should become a fine asset to the team off the bench.
Coach Randy Wittman opted to just watch film with Timberwolves players today – and not practice. The media was informed of this about 30 minutes prior to the scheduled availability time, meaning we will not have the chance to ask Wittman and Co. about all things basketball.
The Oklahoman featured a front-page photo of Kevin Durant and Nick Collison hip-bumping and a bulletin-board quote from Chris Wilcox, who said, “This is a team we were supposed to beat.”
Opined columnist Berry Tramel: “I know. I know. Players aren’t supposed to talk like that. But they’re as clued in as the rest of us. You circle Minnesota at the Thunderdome as a victory, and if you don’t get it, it’s opportunity lost.”
From Sam Smith/Bulls.com:
I do my own surveys on occasion, and one general manager sent me his list before the season of Most Likely Coach to be Fired First: It was Don Nelson, George Karl, Randy Wittman, Sam Mitchell, Lawrence Frank. Since the list was from a general manager, and based on their prediction history, you’d suggest perhaps these guys had the best chance at seniority…Wittman probably is safe with a slightly improved Timberwolves…
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