Julius Randle’s 26-Point Double-Double Powers Timberwolves Past Kings, Supercharges NBA Cup Run

Julius Randle is quickly rewriting the Minnesota Timberwolves record book in his first full month with the franchise, turning what many analysts called a “bold gamble” into an early-season masterstroke. Randle’s roaring start The 30-year-old power forward is averaging 23.2 points, 8.0 rebounds and 7.4 assists through 12 games, numbers that have thrust him into the early MVP conversation and helped Minnesota open 9-3, good for second place in the Western Conference. His playmaking from the elbow has unlocked drive-and-kick lanes for Anthony Edwards while easing the load on new starting center Naz Reid. Statement wins fuel the hype • Nov. 14 vs. Kings — Randle posted 26 points and 11 boards, keying a 124-110 win that kept Minnesota unbeaten at Target Center. • Nov. 2 at Hornets — The veteran erupted for 30 points as the Wolves outscored Charlotte by 17 in the second half. Why the fit works 1. High-post facilitator: Randle leads the NBA in isolation efficiency (min. 4 ISOs per game), generating 1.23 points per possession for the league’s No. 3 offense. 2. Two-man synergy with Edwards: Minnesota averages 128.4 points per 100 possessions when the duo shares the floor, versus 112.1 when either sits. 3. Defensive versatility: At 250 lbs, Randle switches onto wings and small centers, allowing Jaden McDaniels to roam passing lanes. How the trade looks now The July blockbuster that sent Karl-Anthony Towns to New York drew mixed reviews, but Randle’s seamless transition suggests Minnesota may have won the deal outright. According to ESPN, fantasy analysts now slot Randle among the league’s top-10 overall assets, ahead of perennial All-Stars like Pascal Siakam and Jimmy Butler. What’s next • In-season tournament: Minnesota is 2-0 in Group C; Wednesday’s clash with Phoenix could punch an automatic quarterfinal ticket. • December gauntlet: A seven-game road trip featuring Denver, Milwaukee and Boston will test the Wolves’ new-look core. Bottom line If Randle maintains this blend of scoring and orchestration, the Timberwolves will not only challenge for their first division crown since 2004 but could also become a legitimate title dark horse. For a franchise that bet big on chemistry over star power, Julius Randle looks like the missing piece.