Overview
- Van Gundy said on The Zach Lowe Show that he expects the Timberwolves to land around the sixth seed rather than move into elite contention.
- He pointed to the departures of Julius Randle and Naz Reid as concrete losses of size, rebounding and interior scoring that weaken Minnesota's frontcourt.
- Van Gundy noted LaMelo Ball's defensive shortcomings and prior injuries as material risks that could blunt the new Ball‑Edwards backcourt in playoff settings.
- Fans pushed back strongly on social media after the comments, while coach Chris Finch has publicly praised Ball's early fit and chemistry with Anthony Edwards.
- The question will be settled on the court when Minnesota opens the regular season at Miami on Oct. 21, a game that will show how the roster changes affect matchup toughness in a crowded Western Conference.