Just a handful of games remain in one of the most challenging seasons in T’Wolves history. From securing and enjoying No. 1 draft pick Karl-Anthony Towns to the passing of Flip Saunders and all the highs and lows of this marathon season. There will be many thoughts and conversations regarding the season that’s just flew but clearly, a lot of deep breaths will also be taken.
I see it every day and it’s evident in the emails I’ve accumulated. Whether I’m in or out of town, spring break here and numerous projects there… I’ve realized Wolves fans are dialed in, they want more and they are anxious for their team to turn the corner.
The notes are wide ranging and I’m still not going to be able to get to all of them. So, it’s time to share. And let me know what you think…do you agree or not and do you have a differing opinion?
Jackson writes regarding Nikola Pekovic. ALL season long, Pek’s health has been on the minds of fans. Jackson asks, “Do you think we’ll ever see Pekovic play a full season with the Wolves? I personally don’t think we will but I’d love your thoughts. Thanks and keep up the good work.”
Hey Jackson, thanks for being on the fan wagon. You offer up the question I get asked the most. Pek was able to play a little bit this season but not much. I know that sitting on the sidelines watching and not being able to contribute is killing him. But this is not the first time that the legs and feet of basketball players, big men in particular, have broken down.
Will Pek continue on? I dunno. Will he be the Pek of pre-big contract, likely not. But here’s hoping his recovery continues and good fortune shines on him. Nikola Pekovic is one of my favorites. When healthy, he’s a game changer. He’s a friend of my TV show GameON! and joined us for our ceremonial 100th show. Here’s only the best for Pek!
Jonathan writes: I read you every week and one thing you rarely talk about is the effect losing has on players. I saw a comment on TV that players don’t like to go to losing teams. Does losing affect their decisions?
Jonathan thanks for the note. I’ll try to answer your question as simply as I can. I don’t know what comment to which you are referring. Whatever the case, these are the best basketball players in the world so yes, they hate to lose and do all they can to avoid it. That’s part of an NBA players DNA, or at least, I hope it is.
I don’t think losing keeps all players from playing in Phoenix or Minneapolis or Brooklyn or wherever. It can factor in for some players but if they are good, they are being paid to turn around that team’s fortunes. So the paycheck comes first for some players.
Let’s face it. Losing sucks. Regardless if you are an NBA or NFL player, if you work in a hospital or bank or TV station, bad days are bad days. We all like the good over the bad, right?!
NBA Players are no different. It’s how you work, collectively, to get it turned around when it becomes fun. That “next level” is exciting. Case in point, Toronto. The Raptors are winning again and the game is fun for everyone there. Those guys can’t wait to get back to the arena. They get paid well; they enjoy their job and love the relationship with the fans. All is good.
When that all melds and comes together here, it will be very special. And it could be soon. These guys are simply too flat out good to be down too long. Already, they are much better than a season ago and improving.
So yes, losing stinks. Winning rocks and will be coming to your Arena soon. How’s that?!
Motion sickness?!
Darrel writes about the teams up and down play: “Man, can the NBA get rid of those crazy back to backs? The Wolves beat Washington in a double OT thriller then lose the next night at home. They beat the Suns and get hammered by the Clippers. I think It’s hurting not just the Wolves but other NBA teams. I’m getting sea sick watching these guys. Spin that Mr. Simons Says”.
SimonsSays detects a tinge of sarcasm. Yes?! Easy on that, OK Darrel? It’s sometimes more powerful that garlic.
I agree about back to backs. Gotta lose more of those. They do no good. But in terms of scheduling, are vital. Furthermore, the rollercoaster that is the Wolves season drives the players crazy too but its part of their collective growth and improvement. As for the sea sickness, carry around a bag if you are out and about.
Which team will win it all?!
Easy for me. Either the Golden State Warriors will cap their record setting plus-72-win campaign going back-to-back or the San Antonio Spurs will. Toronto and Cleveland will challenge in the East but neither can beat the West’s best. LeBron or not.
Say What Rod?!
As always, I love your notes and we’ve already answered a bunch but I thought this one was interesting and it certainly caught my eye. Thought you’d like it.
Aaron writes, “Rod, great to see you are still at it. I was a faithful viewer during your Ch. 5 days and I’m glad you are still around. So, I’ve wondered. If the Vikings and Twins were playing on the same day, which game would you choose if you had to pick. I enjoy this column. Good luck."
Aaron thanks for the note and my off-camera laughs that it gave me. Believe it or not, THIS happens a lot and is sometimes a tough decision. It doesn’t have to be the Vikings or Twins; it can be the Wild or Wolves too. When your two pro teams are playing on the same day, a “double dip” if you will, it’s a present to a sports guy (or gal, see FOX9’s Dawn Mitchell).
The answer is Vikings games (pre-season excluded) get serious priority. They play only a handful of home games every season. IF the Twins are in a pennant chase, that’s a huge factor. I’m a hoopologist so the Wolves always get “A” billing. I use the DVR to cover my back but it really boils down to that game and which is more important. If they are scheduled at different times, that my friend, is a no brainer. I do both. But to answer your great question as well as I can, I do both, if possible. Life’s too short. Catch as many games as you can. Right?!
Wolves @ Fingertips!
If you don’t have it, download this basketball fan must-have! The Wolves mobile app gives fans instant access to exclusive Wolves content and live game coverage. Fans can download the free app on iOS and Android devices by visiting Timberwolves.com/mobile.
The official Timberwolves app offers fans the ability to follow live game content including the score, stats, shot charts and related social media conversations via the Game Tracker. The app also allows fans to seamlessly check the team’s schedule, roster and conference standings. Fans on the go can stay engaged and updated with the team by accessing Wolves articles, photo galleries and original videos through the app. New features including ticket sales integrations, fan experience modules, exclusive membership content and more will be added to the app in the near future. The app is another step the Wolves have taken to accommodate the continued growth of mobile web use.
Got something to say?!
If you are a serious Timberwolves fan (and even the casual fan is allowed), drop me a note with your thoughts. Write me at rod@gameONtvMN.com.
SimonsSays on TV/PODcast:
I’d love for you to catch my TV show GameON!. GameON! is well into its fourth season and continues to showcase the Timberwolves like no other broadcast show in the region. GameON! is powered by Birch’s at Long Lake, its broadcast in High Definition and can be found on ITunes, on demand via our new GameON! App (free and available for Apple/Android) and online @ www.gameontvmn.com. Don’t miss an episode of the Emmy winning GameON! @ 10am this Sunday morning on FOX’s My29 and throughout the weekend regionally on MidCo Sports Net. We’d love for you to “like” us on Facebook @ GameOnTvMN.GameON! is also seen in North & South Dakota
and Western Minnesota on MidCo SportsNet several times a weekend. We reserve the right to use your e-mails here in SimonsSays @ Timberwolves.com. We talk Wolves. Every day. High’s & lows. We’re there because we’re fans, just like you! Keep your GameON! See you soon!