Pre 2024 Playoffs: Timberwolves

On paper, I think Minnesota is best suited to represent the western conference in the finals. They're led by a star who elevates his game every time during the playoffs and is a good 3 level scorer (Ant). The Wolves also employ one of the greatest three-point shooting big men in history who can serve as an effective post scorer too (KAT). Gobert is 1 of the best rebounders and shot blockers in the modern era. Minny's quality defense extends to the perimeter as well. Edwards, McDaniels, Alexander-Walker, and Anderson are players who've shown to be at least good defenders in their careers. Reid is a skilled scorer off the bench that does a great job backing up Towns and/or Rudy. And at point guard is a reliable, battle tested vet who's a very efficient 3-point shooter in Conley. But can they figure out their 4th quarter scoring woes in the postseason? Will Minnesota have to sacrifice the backbone of their defense (Gobert) to add more spacing late in games, especially in a potential series vs Jokic? How will KAT look after missing over a month, save for 2 subpar games, to finish the year? Anyway, I think they lose vs Phoenix. Minny not only got swept by them during the regular season but Ant was horrible during those matchups too. Also, the Suns have 3 perimeter scorers who can easily go for 30 points on multiple nights in a series while the Wolves only have 1. However, Minnesota has a great chance to win because of the significant size and skill advantage they have among their big men and that a potential game 7 will be played on their court.