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Andrew Wiggins shows promise in Timberwolves' pre-season

Prior to the NBA preseason, the Minnesota Timberwolves' head coach Flip Saunders was noncommittal about starting 2014 No.1 overall pick Andrew Wiggins. Since then, the 19-year-old Canadian has shown serious potential in his four preseason starts as shooting guard.

His Oct. 7 debut in a 103-90 loss to the Indiana Pacers was his most impressive performance to date. The Toronto native played 32 minutes, racking up 18 points, four rebounds, three assists, and three steals.

Wiggins's average numbers over four games weren't as strong with 11.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.5 assists. These statistics signal a possible weakness in the rookie's game, as many pundits are concerned about his offensive consistency.

He shows flashes of promise through his athleticism, and the potential is there for some highlight-reel moments. With Ricky Rubio as his point guard he managed this huge dunk in an October 10 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers.

Concerns about Wiggins's offensive gaps were highlighted by the results of NBA.com's 2014 General Manager survey. Second overall pick Jabari Parker of the Milwaukee Bucks is overwhelmingly expected to win rookie of the year.

Still, Wiggins is expected to make his NBA debut, as a starter, on Oct. 29 against the Memphis Grizzlies. He sat the last two games with a lower back injury as a precaution. If he plays the Timberwolves' last preseason game Friday, it's a pretty safe bet he'll be in the lineup opening night.

The hype surrounding his future with the team has been a hot topic since his trade from the Cleveland Cavaliers this past summer.

Fans on Twitter seem excited about the possibilities for the young team with a potential star player like Wiggins to help the franchise.

In case Wiggins alone doesn't get you excited about the Timberwolves' season, check out this parody.