The Athletic NBA Daily Wemby vs. The World
Jan 12, 2026
The Timberwolves celebrate a thrilling comeback against Victor Wembanyama's Spurs, marking their strong contender status. Without Nikola Jokić, the Nuggets shine thanks to depth players like Tim Hardaway Jr. and breakout star Peyton Watson. The dramatic finish between the Raptors and Sixers features a standout rookie, while Oklahoma City's position at the top of the Western Conference is debated. The hosts discuss potential threats from teams like the Wolves, Nuggets, and Spurs, leaving fans eager for fresh rivalries.
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Wolves' Post-Thanksgiving Surge
- The Timberwolves have a 16-6 record since Thanksgiving, the best in the NBA over that stretch.
- Their recent wins over Spurs and Thunder show they perform well against top opponents.
Two-Way Balance Predicts Deep Runs
- Minnesota ranks top-10 in both offense and defense, joining four other teams with that balance.
- Teams with top-10 offense and defense typically make deep playoff runs, signaling Minnesota's strong positioning.
Randle's Two-Way Impact
- Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle continue the momentum from last season with strong two-way play.
- Randle's defensive physicality helped disrupt Victor Wembanyama in crucial moments.