The Minnesota Timberwolves are making waves this offseason-not just on the court, but across the Atlantic. The entire roster, led by star guard Anthony Edwards, traveled to Paris to visit teammate Rudy Gobert, a native of France. This team-building trip comes after a disappointing end to the 2025-26 season, where the Timberwolves lost their last four games, including a 109-139 defeat to the San Antonio Spurs on May 16, 2026.
What happened in Paris?
The Timberwolves’ trip to France was more than just a vacation. Videos and photos surfaced on social media showing the team in front of the Eiffel Tower, with Edwards joking about the landmark’s resemblance to the replica at Walt Disney World. Gobert, who grew up in Saint-Quentin, hosted his teammates, reinforcing the bond among the squad. The team’s unity is crucial as they prepare for a pivotal 2026-27 season, where they aim to make their first NBA Finals appearance in franchise history.
Why does this trip matter for the Timberwolves?
After five consecutive playoff appearances, including back-to-back Western Conference Finals runs in 2024 and 2025, the Timberwolves are looking to take the next step. The addition of LaMelo Ball to pair with Edwards in the backcourt has raised expectations. Ball, known for his playmaking, averaged 7.1 assists per game last season with the Charlotte Hornets. Meanwhile, Edwards finished third in scoring with 28.8 points per game. This offseason trip signals the team’s commitment to building chemistry before the season begins.
What’s next for Minnesota?
With high expectations for the Edwards-Ball duo, the Timberwolves are poised for a strong season. Kendrick Perkins, an NBA champion, even predicted that the pair could become the best backcourt in the league and reach the NBA Finals. As the team returns from France, all eyes will be on how this new-look roster gels on the court. The Timberwolves’ recent form-1 win and 4 losses in their last five games-highlights the need for consistency. If they can harness the camaraderie from this trip, they may just achieve their championship dreams.
