As the season approached near, an incredible sense of optimism surrounded the Minnesota Timberwolves. Ricky Rubio was due back from microfracture surgery at some point in December. Nikola Pekovic looked to reach new heights after a breakout rookie season. Newly acquired players like Andrei Kirilenko, Chase Budinger, Alexey Shved and Greg Stiemsma provided the team with excellent depth. Brandon Roy would make a triumphant comeback from degenerative knees after showing much promise during workouts in the offseason. Most importantly, Kevin
