I just rewatched this game -- I don't have any blinding insights that others haven't already expressed but:
- I was struck by how perfect a superstar is for this team. He sublimates his game for his teammates to shine, but doesn't disappear. In fact, he stands out by his consistent shooting, his terrific passing, his court awareness.
- D'Angelo Russell was a wonder in this game -- not perfect, so there is still possible improvements -- but as Jim Pete said about his defense "If we got this D'Angelo..." but didn't finish the thought. In my head, I finished it with "...this team is going deep in the playoffs." He was that good in this game.
- Jaden McDaniels is going to be a superstar.
- I love Gobert. He gives his best night in, night out. But more than anyone else on the team, he needs the players around him to play team basketball on both sides of the ball to be good himself.
- I can't help but root for JMac, Austin Rivers, Kyle Anderson and Taurean Prince. Role players that consistently star in their roles.
- I can't help but feel sorry for Naz. He answers the bell every time he's called on, but he's being wasted on the Wolves bench.
- I expected Forbes to have a role on this team, and Nowell to be better.