Recently the national media has been covering the Timberwolves more than they usually do, based on how good they’ve been playing. A lot of ESPN and Ringer shows and podcasts have spoken frequently and highly of the 23-24 wolves so far. It got me to thinking, what was the perception of the team during 03-04, the best season in team history. For those who were around at the time, were the wolves being nationally discussed as a major contender? Overlooked or hyped up? A fun story but not serious? Not discussed that much?
They were well respected as an overachieving team that KG carried to .550 ball every year, and to the first round of the playoffs. It was the best Wolves year by far.
But I don’t recall us being thought of as contenders. Cassell and Sprewell were clearly in the downside of their careers.
Contrast with this year, when only Conley is nearing the end of his career. Everyone else is in their prime or young.