{"id":639006,"date":"2026-03-04T14:59:30","date_gmt":"2026-03-04T14:59:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/639006\/"},"modified":"2026-03-04T14:59:30","modified_gmt":"2026-03-04T14:59:30","slug":"nba-survey-canis-pulsus-vol-47-quarterly-report-3-results","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/639006\/","title":{"rendered":"NBA Survey: Canis Pulsus Vol. 47 – Quarterly Report 3 Results"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Minnesota Timberwolves<\/a> still well in the hunt for home court advantage in the playoffs. How did they get there? Their seesaw effort certainly had to do with it. The front office tinkering with some marginal moves had an effect. We asked, and 50 of you responded with who you thought contributed the most. It\u2019s time for\u2026<\/p>\n

Canis Pulsus Vol. 47 – Quarterly Report 3<\/p>\n

(Note: Canis Pulsus Vol. 47 data was collected through 3\/1 through the Denver Nuggets game)<\/p>\n

\"PORTLAND,<\/a><\/p>\n

PORTLAND, OREGON – FEBRUARY 24: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks on during the game against the Portland Trail Blazers at the Moda Center on February 24, 2026 in Portland, Oregon. The Minnesota Timberwolves won 124-121. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alika Jenner\/Getty Images) Getty Images<\/p>\n

Quarter 1: A- (47.1%)
Semester 1: A (40.3%)<\/p>\n

The Wolves went 11-9 during their last 20 game stretch and Ant has been a big reason for the 11. However, some of his late game decision making and poor shot selection has certainly contributed to the 9 as well. Edwards continues to do whatever he can to try and push Minnesota into the playoffs, averaging 30.5 points on 48.1% shooting.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Quarter 1: B+ (38.2%)
Semester 1: A \/ B+ (31.9% each)<\/p>\n

The curious case of what planet Julius Randle is on continues. For a small period of time, many had chalked up his underwhelming play due to \u201cGiannis rumors\/trade deadline saga,\u201d but we\u2019re well past that now. His 20.2 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.7 assists this quarter doesn\u2019t seem too bad, but the eye test looks way worse than that.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Quarter 1: A- \/ B+ (35.3%)
Semester 1: A \/ A- (31% each)<\/p>\n

Jaden may have his ups and downs throughout the season, but when he\u2019s up, boy is it up. His last few games have really inspired more confidence among the fan base. Slim has to keep it together and not allow himself to get taken out of games mentally. He is the ultimate X-factor for Minnesota.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>\"MINNEAPOLIS,<\/a><\/p>\n

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – FEBRUARY 09: Rudy Gobert #27 of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts against the Atlanta Hawks in the third quarter at Target Center on February 09, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Timberwolves defeated the Hawks 138-116. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by David Berding\/Getty Images) Getty Images<\/p>\n

Quarter 1: B+ (35.3%)
Semester 1: A (33.3%)<\/p>\n

One of the most steadying forces for the Timberwolves this season has been the four, maybe soon-to-be five, time Defensive Player of the Year. It\u2019s clich\u00e9, but Rudy\u2019s \u201cfloor raising\u201d ability continues to be on full display. I have no doubt if he didn\u2019t have his ongoing battle with flagrant fouls, he would have earned an A+ this quarter.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Quarter 1: B (35.3%)
Semester 1: B (34.7%)<\/p>\n

Donte is peaking just at the right time of the season. His three-point percentage has steadily risen in recent months, reaching a season-best 44.1% from deep in February. Just as important has his been his \u201cintangibles\u201d which really look tangible. He\u2019s always the first to sacrifice his body on both ends of the court. At some point soon, the topic of DiVincenzo\u2019s future in Minnesota will need to be had.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Quarter 1: B- (35.3%)
Semester 1: B (40.8%)<\/p>\n

Similar to DiVincenzo, Naz Reid has been getting better as the season progresses. He had a particularly strong stretch in January where he scored 13 points or more in 11 out of 13 games. Naz can still be a liability on the defensive end of the court, but his scoring has been a necessity off the bench.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>\"MINNEAPOLIS,<\/a><\/p>\n

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – FEBRUARY 20: Ayo Dosunmu #13 of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks on against the Dallas Mavericks in the first quarter at Target Center on February 20, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Timberwolves defeated the Mavericks 122-111. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by David Berding\/Getty Images) Getty Images<\/p>\n

It\u2019s only been eight games, but Ayo has made his presence felt on the roster. He\u2019s immediately settled in as the seventh man after Naz Reid. Minnesota is blessed to have a two-way perimeter player who shoots over 50% from the field while being an above average three-point shooter (38.5%). The 26-year-old is certainly still learning his teammates, but the transition is going smoothly.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Quarter 1: C (29.4%)
Semester 1: C- (23.9%)<\/p>\n

Welcome back, Minnesota Mike! Though he hasn\u2019t played much since his return in a Wolves jersey, perhaps a break is all the relationship needed. His days as an important piece of the rotation may be behind him now, but his presence as a trust sideline and locker room voice is still necessary.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Quarter 1: Incomplete
Semester 1: B+ (30%)<\/p>\n

Bones has been a breath of fresh air. On the days that he\u2019s been \u201con,\u201d he\u2019s a flamethrower who ignites his team into an unstoppable offensive machine. Despite being a one-way player, he still adds value in addition to being a immaculate vibes guy.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Quarter 1: B+ (21.2%)
Semester 1: B- (31.9%)<\/p>\n

The downwards spiral of Jaylen Clark this season has been one of the handful of sad storylines for the Wolves. It seemed like it was just yesterday where we were praying for him to hit the 15 minute mark in a game, as it all but guaranteed victory for Minnesota. Nowadays, we\u2019re pleased if he even enters a game during garbage time. He\u2019s a worker though, so I\u2019d expect for him to have a few more meaningful moments this season.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>\"MINNEAPOLIS,<\/a><\/p>\n

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – FEBRUARY 22: Joan Beringer #19 of the Minnesota Timberwolves walks onto the floor during player introductions prior to the start of the game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Target Center on February 22, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The 76ers defeated the Timberwolves 135-108. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by David Berding\/Getty Images) Getty Images<\/p>\n

Quarter 1: Incomplete
Semester 1: B+ (30%)<\/p>\n

Joan\u2019s grades were all over the place in this one. Finch doesn\u2019t seem quite ready to unleash the 19-year-old to a steady role, and that may be warranted. He\u2019s a ball of limbs and energy at this point, but sometimes that\u2019s what the team needs. An active, athletic, big body. Hopefully Joan continues to develop at his current rate.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Terrence Shannon Jr. \/ Julian Phillips\/ Joe Ingles<\/p>\n

Quarter 1: B (29.4%)
Semester 1: B+ (33.8%)<\/p>\n

Chris Finch seems like he\u2019s on his way to winning the \u201cSurvived the Most Calls for Firing by a Fan Base\u201d award. Did he bench Julius Randle more? Did he get his team to \u201cplay harder\u201d against lower competition? Maybe not. But he has continued to rack up wins.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>\"MINNEAPOLIS,<\/a><\/p>\n

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – FEBRUARY 6: Tim Connelly talks to the media during media availability on February 6, 2026 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by David Sherman\/NBAE via Getty Images) NBAE via Getty Images<\/p>\n

Quarter 1: B (29.4%)
Semester 1: A- (31.9%)<\/p>\n

It\u2019s not often a front office turns an old player, destressed high draft pick prospect, and bench fodder into *checks notes* millions in savings, a key bench contributor, a previously important roster piece, bench fodder, and that same old player. Have yourself a season, Tim Connelly.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Quarter 1: B (26.5%)
Semester 1: A (31.9%)<\/p>\n

There\u2019s been some murmurs about Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez cutting some corners to save some money. It\u2019s not clear how true those rumors are, but these things cannot be denied: They rolled out the best jersey rotation perhaps in Wolves history, reintroduced a beloved legend, and has their team on track for another extended postseason run.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Will the Wolves make the play-in tournament?<\/p>\n

No (Earn top 6 seed) (96%)<\/p>\n

Quarter 1: No (Earn top 6 seed) (88.2%)
Semester 1: No (Earn top 6 seed) (88.7%)<\/p>\n

We finally have a lone dissenter who believes the Wolves will miss the play-in tournament due to being a bottom 11 seed!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Will the Wolves make the playoffs?<\/p>\n

Quarter 1: Yes (100%)
Semester 1: Yes (100%)<\/p>\n

That lone dissenter has disappeared again.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

What do you hope the Wolves accomplish during the next quarter of the season the most?<\/p>\n

Quarter 1: Increase effectiveness and consistency of defensive effort
Semester 1: Earn homecourt advantage with a top four seed finish<\/p>\n

You people are never satisfied are you? 20 games ago, voters asked for the Wolves to get a top four seed. They\u2019ve completed that. Now? Over 17% of voters all called for the Wolves to earn a top three seed. A large portion of voters also mentioned themes of consistency, effort, and maturity. All reasonable asks, I guess.<\/p>\n

\"DENVER,<\/a><\/p>\n

DENVER, COLORADO – MARCH 1: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves celebrates the win against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena on March 1, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and\/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jamie Schwaberow\/Getty Images) Getty Images<\/p>\n

With a quarter of the regular season over, my feelings on the direction of the Wolves are…<\/p>\n

Slightly optimistic (54%)<\/p>\n

Preseason: Very optimistic (63.3%)
Quarter 1: Slightly optimistic (61.8%)
Semester 1: Very optimistic (70.8%)<\/p>\n

Guarded optimism seems like the way to go with this team. You never know who you\u2019re going to get every game, yet you kind of do know who you\u2019re getting. When all the chips are on the table at the end of the season, rent will come due.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Minnesota has hit a season high 3.26 GPA, an increase from their 3.13 a few months ago! You (and their parents) must all be very proud of your pups.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"The Minnesota Timberwolves still well in the hunt for home court advantage in the playoffs. How did they…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3782],"tags":[7,16811,307,152,3954,6,308,11376],"class_list":["post-639006","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","category-minnesota-timberwolves","tag-basketball","tag-canis-pulsus","tag-minnesota","tag-minnesota-timberwolves","tag-minnesotatimberwolves","tag-nba","tag-timberwolves","tag-timberwolves-analysis"],"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/channels.im\/@nba\/116171505206930078","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/639006","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=639006"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/639006\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=639006"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=639006"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=639006"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}