Bones Hyland headlines Timberwolves’ preseason opener with 18 points against Nuggets
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Bones Hyland delivered a team-high 18 points in 22 minutes Saturday as the Minnesota Timberwolves opened the preseason with a win over the Denver Nuggets, strengthening his bid for consistent minutes this year.
Hyland, who added three assists and committed just one turnover, is currently listed as Minnesota’s third-string point guard behind veteran Mike Conley and 2024 No. 8 pick Rob Dillingham. The 23-year-old re-signed in September after joining the club on a two-way deal in late February and has developed a close relationship with Dillingham. “He’s really like a little brother to me,” Hyland said, noting their similar shifty styles and slim frames.
Gobert opts for rest, looks sharp
Center Rudy Gobert appeared refreshed after skipping summer international play. Following his run in the 2024 Olympics, the three-time Defensive Player of the Year declined to join France for EuroBasket to focus on recovery and strength training. “As much as I love it, I had to make the decision this summer to focus on recharging the batteries,” Gobert said.
Rookies show flashes
First-round pick Joan Beringer posted 14 points and four rebounds in nearly 24 minutes but battled foul trouble, racking up five personals while struggling to move Nuggets center Jonas Valančiūnas. “He’s so strong. I couldn’t move him,” Beringer admitted.
Second-round selection Rocco Zikarsky, a 7-3 Australian on a two-way contract, contributed eight points and nine rebounds in 13 minutes. He is expected to spend most of the season with Minnesota’s G League affiliate.
The calm, incident-free training camp has been welcomed inside the organization as the Wolves aim to carry that stability into the regular season.
Source: Hoops Rumors
