The Minnesota Timberwolves are 3-0 for the first time in franchise history, and the LaMelo Ball trade is the catalyst. Their latest victory was a dominant 117-94 win over the Toronto Raptors at Target Center on October 25, 2026, capping a historic opening week. Ball, Jaden McDaniels, and three other Wolves players currently occupy the NBA's top five spots in plus-minus, a stat that highlights the team's immediate and overwhelming success.
Ball's vision and unselfish play have unlocked a new offensive dimension for Minnesota. In just 17 minutes against the Raptors, he posted 15 points, eight assists, and two steals. For the young season, he's averaging 16.0 points, 6.3 assists, and 2.0 steals while shooting 42.3% from three-point range. More than the box score, his pace and decision-making have raised everyone around him. He leads the league in plus-minus alongside teammate Jaden McDaniels, with Rudy Gobert, Ayo Dosunmu, and Anthony Edwards also in the top five. This collective dominance is no accident.
Ball isn't forced to carry an unsustainable load like he did in Charlotte. That change should help preserve his health, which has been a concern in the past. His role here is about making the right play, not only the spectacular one. And it's working perfectly. The Wolves' ball movement is crisper, and the floor feels more open for stars like Anthony Edwards to operate.
Minnesota isn't just winning; they are demolishing opponents. Their three wins came by an average of 23.3 points. The sequence started with a 131-106 road win in Miami on October 21, followed by a 115-93 victory in Orlando on October 23, before the home win over Toronto. This makes them just the third team in NBA history to begin a season with three consecutive wins by 20 or more points. It's a statement of intent that has the entire league taking notice.
The defense, anchored by Rudy Gobert, has been stifling. But the offensive explosion, fueled by Ball's arrival, is the real story. The team is playing with a joy and cohesion that was often missing last season.
The schedule offers no respite, but the Wolves are riding high. They face a quick turnaround with a road game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on October 26, 2026. It will be another test of their depth and readiness. If they maintain this level, conversations will quickly shift from a hot start to legitimate championship contention.
For LaMelo Ball, this environment gives him his first real shot at the NBA playoffs. With his playmaking, Edwards' scoring, and a deep supporting cast featuring McDaniels, Gobert, Dosunmu, and Jonathan Kuminga, the ceiling is the Finals. It's early, but the Minnesota Timberwolves have clearly changed their trajectory. The Ball trade isn't just a success; it looks like a masterstroke that has instantly made them one of the most fearsome teams in basketball.
