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Stan Van Gundy predicts Timberwolves to finish sixth in Western Conference

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 19, 2026, 3:18 AM

Last updated Oct 19, 2026

Stan Van Gundy predicts Timberwolves to finish sixth in Western Conference

Summary

Former NBA coach Stan Van Gundy predicts the Minnesota Timberwolves will finish sixth in the Western Conference despite the addition of LaMelo Ball to play with Anthony Edwards. Van Gundy noted that while the Timberwolves could score points, he does not see them surpassing stronger teams like the Denver Nuggets or the San Antonio Spurs. In contrast, Brendan Haywood expressed optimism, suggesting the Timberwolves could be the third-best team in the West. Minnesota, which finished sixth last season with a record of 49-33, opens their regular season against the Miami Heat this coming Wednesday.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Van Gundy predicts Timberwolves will finish sixth in the West.
•Timberwolves added LaMelo Ball from the Charlotte Hornets this summer.
•Brendan Haywood believes they could finish third in the West.
•Wolves open the regular season against Miami Heat on Wednesday.

Latest Updates

3:18 AMYahoo Sports — ‘I’m Not Sold On Them’ – Veteran NBA Coach Predicts Timberwolves to Finish ‘6th Seed’ Despite LaMelo Ball, Anthony Edwards Pairing

What they're saying

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The Minnesota Timberwolves added LaMelo Ball to play alongside Anthony Edwards this summer. The question going into the season is whether that is enough for them to move up in the Western Conference.
— Yahoo Sports

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