Wolves vs. Knicks: Keeping the foot on the gas

By: Nathan Brinkman

The Timberwolves are hot. There is no doubt about it.  The wolves have dominated in their last three home games, all of which were played against team within the playoff picture. Tyus Jones did an impeccable job filling as a starter in those games, and when Jeff Teague returned to the lineup, the chemistry appeared to be the same and the wolves continued to dominate. 

Unless the wolves play down to the level of the visiting Knicks (19-22) , this should be a relatively easy win for the  wolves. 

What to watch for: 

Towns vs. Porzingis: Once again, Karl-Anthony Towns will be up against one of the standout young players in the NBA in Kristaps Porzingis. Although Porzingis gets a lot of media attention, I believe Towns is the better player. Towns is quicker, more versatile and stronger than Porzingis. I think in tonights contest, Towns will show that he is truly the best up and coming post player in the NBA. 

Jimmy Butler: As of late, Jimmy Butler is showing why the Wolves were willing to give up three great young prospects for him this off season. He is playing at a definite all-star level and his play has even warranted MVP chants from the Target Center crowd. On top of his play, his leadership has enabled the wolves to really become a contender in the Western conference this season. Look for Butler to come in clutch this if this game is close in crunch time. 

Are the wolves for real? It seems like this could be the year. Not the year in which we win a title, but the year the Minnesota Timberwolves are a respected quality team in the NBA. We have all the pieces to make a run, the question in this game will be, can we be consistent? 

Starters

Minnesota: PG Jeff Teague, SG Jimmy Butler, SF Andrew Wiggins, PF Taj Gibson, C Karl-Anthony Towns

New York:  PG Jarrett Jack, SG Courtney Lee, SF Lance Thomas, PF Kristaps Porzingis, C Enes Kanter

Prediction

109- 92 Wolves. I'm buying in. I believe in what I have seen recently in this Wolves team. There will be hiccups, don't get me wrong, but I think the Wolves will begin to win winnable games.