A lengthy playoff drought will continue this year for the Minnesota Timberwolves, but the future looks legitimately bright for the first time in awhile. As they look ahead toward next season, here are five questions the Timberwolves must answer over the remainder of the 2015-16 season.
5. Will Kevin Garnett Play Again?
Getty ImagesGarnett has not played since January due to a lingering knee issue. A token appearance in uniform at Target Center seems possible before the season is over, but otherwise it looks like Garnett's playing career is over.
4. Is Shabazz Muhammad Part Of The Future?
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After a disappointing rookie season, Muhammad has been better over the last two seasons as predominantly a bench player for the Timberwolves. It's a role that seems to suit him well, but Muhammad may have to really step up down the stretch to solidify his place in Minnesota long-term.
3. Can Zach LaVine Become a Complete Player Quickly?
Getty ImagesKarl-Anthony Towns and Andrew Wiggins look like future multi-time All-Stars for Minnesota, but LaVine has shown promise and he's won the last two Slam Dunk contests at All-Star Weekend. Becoming a more well-rounded player is the key for LaVine, and there are signs (41.8 percent from three-point range over the last 12 games) he can do that to give the Timberwolves a trio of budding stars.
2. Is Ricky Rubio Part Of The Long-Term Plan?
Getty ImagesTrade rumors have been on and off around Rubio basically since he joined the Timberwolves, and it's funny to think he's still just 25 years old. Adding better shooters around him to accentuate his passing ability would help, but it's worth wondering if Rubio is legitimately regarded as a long-term building block.
1. Will Sam Mitchell Stay In Place As Head Coach?
Getty ImagesMitchell was named interim head coach when Flip Saunders fell ill last fall, in an obviously difficult situation for the team. His case for the permanent job could get a lot stronger if the Timberwolves finish well.
