Three weeks ago, the Minnesota Timberwolves were getting burnt to a 115-95 crisp. Since that loss in Phoenix, Minnesota has won four games and played quality basketball in six straight. The main reason the Wolves have achieved nearly have its season victory total in an 11-day span: Al Jefferson.
An emerging NBA star, the 23-year-old is making a huge impact with his new team and should be given serious consideration as an All-Star invite.
Last night, in the Wolves win over Chicago, Big Al poured in 26 points and ripped down 20 boards. Jefferson is averaging 21.2 points and 12.2 rebounds (including 4.1 offensive) per game this season.
During Minnesota's hot six-game stretch, Jefferson has averaged 30.2 points and 16.5 rebounds per contest, shooting at a 52.2% (72-138) success rate -- remove the loss at Boston (versus the Wolves old Big Ticket) and those numbers would be 33.2, 18.8 and 53.2%, respectively.
No, Minnesota will not make the playoffs. Yes, the Boston Celtics will make the playoffs. No, a Minnesota team with a 9-34 record does not merit the number of All-Stars a team like the Celtics (35-8) do.
But, yes, Kevin Garnett (19.2 ppg, 9.0 rpg and 3.8 apg) will undoubtedly get an All-Star nod, if not a start. So, one would also think Jefferson deserves at least some consideration, right?
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