The possibility that the Timberwolves, fresh off a conference finals run, might have actually gotten better by swapping out Towns for Julius Randle was hardly considered.  If anything, the Randle fit with Minnesota was largely derided.

And Randle, as usual, got a big shout-out from his biggest supporter, his wife, Kendra Randle. When the NBA on ESPN account sent out a message on X about Randle, writing, "JULIUS RANDLE WENT OFF TO ELIMINATE THE WARRIORS," Kendra Randle responded.

Steve Kerr was not expecting Julius Randle to author his Warriors downfall. Randle had two disappointing postseasons with the Knicks as he battled injuries. When he was traded to the Timberwolves this offseason, many felt the Knicks had won the deal while landing Karl Anthony-Towns.