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Julius Randle · A man of many pledges and promises upon arriving to his new, title-contending environment in the Twin Cities, Julius Randle couldn’t help but pivot forward with optimism in what he projects to be his career’s “best year yet.” Though, with Jayson Hayes mirroring said movements on an isolation island from the 3-point arc’s top, the Minnesota Timberwolves star proved that a quick, deceptive sidestep never hurt anyone, either. Given his first taste of offensive alpha dog-type status with his fellow All-Star running mate resting, Randle stores a proven, signature move, lulling Los Angeles’ big to sleep through a jab step clinic before burying a rhythmic trifecta. The Los Angeles Lakers, buoyed by both timely runs and a demonstrative first half, would command the season-opening win on October 22, 2024, but not without a competitive showing from Randle’s new-look Wolves. Returning to the arena that first observed his progression into a three-time All-Star, Randle tallied 16 points (on 5-of-10 shooting), nine rebounds, four assists, and one 3-pointer. · State of Mint · State of Mint