The Dane Moore NBA Podcast Five Wolves Questions To Start The New Year w/ Kyle Theige
Jan 2, 2026
Kyle Theige, a basketball analyst known for his insights on the Timberwolves, joins to discuss five pressing questions as the new year begins. They explore whether January is crucial for the team's trajectory under Tim Connelly. The duo debates solutions for the Wolves' struggles with energy and effort, tackles players' public accountability, and examines Anthony Edwards' leadership. They also ponder the return of Julius Randle's early-season form and discuss the potential impact of rookie Johan Berenje. Finally, they predict the Wolves' playoff positioning in the West.
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January Is Tim Conley's Big Test
- January 2026 is the pivotal month for Tim Conley to reshape the roster before the trade deadline.
- The period forces diagnosis: tweak rotations, repurpose assets, or make a trade to fix frontcourt and bench gaps.
Treat January As An Experiment Month
- Use January as an experimentation month: open rotations and try youngsters like Johan Berenje or Rob in extended stints.
- Force decisions now so the front office knows whether to acquire a backup five or reallocate minutes before the trade deadline.
Energy Problems Need Structural Fixes
- The Wolves show systemic energy and effort problems that film sessions temporarily fix but don't cure.
- Sustainable change requires roster tweaks, coaching adjustments, and leadership from top players.