Photo by Gene Sweeney Jr./Getty Images

Minnesota Timberwolves 2025-26 projected starting lineup as Anthony Edwards attempts to return to WCF

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Aaditya Krishnamurthy | Last updated Aug 28, 2025 6:00 PM ET

The Minnesota Timberwolves are looking to return to the Western Conference Finals, although not much has changed with their roster.

The Minnesota Timberwolves had a surprisingly strong season last year. While they didn’t perform very well in the regular season, they had a successful playoff run.

The Timberwolves upset the LA Lakers and Golden State Warriors to reach the Western Conference Finals for the second year in a row.

However, much like 2024, the Timberwolves were hopelessly outmatched by the Oklahoma City Thunder, who made quick work of them in five games.

Now, as they head into another season, the Timberwolves have not done much work on their roster, but look to challenge the best of the best in the Western Conference.

Photo by David Berding/Getty Images

2025-26 Minnesota Timberwolves projected starting lineup

The Minnesota Timberwolves are going into the new season with a relatively similar roster as compared to last year.

This is what their lineup is expected to look like:

Starting Lineup	Second Unit
Donte DiVincenzo	Mike Conley
Anthony Edwards	Terrance Shannon Jr.
Jaden McDaniels	Leonard Miller
Julius Randle	Joe Ingles
Rudy Gobert	Naz Reid

Many expect Naz Reid to be a starter next season. Reid re-signed with the Timberwolves for $125 million this summer, but will have to earn his starting spot over Rudy Gobert.

Julius Randle also extended his contract for $100 million, a move that cost the Timberwolves the chance to re-sign Nickeil Alexander-Walker.

Minnesota Timberwolves need to keep Anthony Edwards happy

This is a crucial season for the Minnesota Timberwolves. They really have to prove to Anthony Edwards that they can continue to be a championship team.

If not, Anthony Edwards could demand a trade from the Timberwolves. It’s very rare in the modern NBA for a franchise to land a superstar the caliber of Edwards.

The Timberwolves cannot afford to fumble Edwards by failing to build a solid roster around him. Even if this season is a disappointment, their front office must make up for it by landing another superstar.

Hopefully, this season can bring about some success for the Minnesota Timberwolves. But it’s hard to see them thriving in this stacked Western Conference.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: