Ayo Dosunmu Shines in Four-Game Stretch as Starter for Wolves

During a four-game stretch as a starter following Anthony Edwards‘ two-month injury absence, Minnesota Timberwolves guard Ayo Dosunmu averaged 19.5 points, 8 rebounds, 4 passes, and 2 interceptions per game.

Elevated Role Following Anthony Edwards’ Injury

Ayo Dosunmu has stepped into an extended starting role for the Minnesota Timberwolves. Previously utilized as a sixth man early in the season, the guard moved into the starting lineup due to a two-month absence for Anthony Edwards. This shift has resulted in increased playing time and elevated offensive responsibilities.

In a recent victory against the Milwaukee Bucks, Dosunmu recorded 19 points on 8-of-18 shooting, including 1-of-6 from three-point range, while adding 12 rebounds and 8 assists. He operated alongside LaMelo Ball, who contributed 34 points in his best outing in Minnesota.

Dosunmu Boosts Production After Moving into Starting Lineup

Dosunmu’s recent production as a starter marks a significant increase from his output coming off the bench, where he averaged 12 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 passes per game. Over his first four starts in this stretch, his shooting percentages reached 53% from the field and 41% from beyond the arc.

I use my speed and my wingspan to get to the places I want to go, Dosunmu said. Changing direction also, it’s very important. I have several ways of doing it around the rim, but my first intention is always to move forward like a running back looking for an opening.

The guard, a Chicago native who joined Minnesota via trade from the Chicago Bulls in February, emphasized his aggressive mindset on the court. I try to always play aggressively. That’s really what characterizes me. I attach a lot of importance to every possession, every match, every shooting session, he noted.

Finch Praises Guard for Handling Expanded Playmaking Duties

Minnesota head coach Chris Finch pointed to Dosunmu’s capability to manage increased playmaking duties when called upon. We can entrust him with the ball, rather than confining him to a role of a complementary player, Finch stated. He has progressed. We have occasionally seen him play a major role in driving our play. When we entrust him with the ball, we know what to expect. This inspires great confidence.

Dosunmu secured a contract extension during the summer following his transition from Chicago, where he had played since 2021. His current performances have validated that investment and created uncertainty about whether his expanded responsibilities will persist once Edwards returns from injury.

Performance Comparison

A review of Dosunmu’s statistics highlights the statistical shift between his bench role and his recent stint as a starter:

• Bench Production: 12.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 4.0 assists per game.
• Starter Production (Four-Game Stretch): 19.5 points, 8.0 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 2.0 interceptions per game, shooting 53% overall and 41% from three-point range.
• Recent Outing (vs. Milwaukee Bucks): 19 points, 12 rebounds, 8 assists.

Upcoming Schedule

The Minnesota Timberwolves continue their schedule with upcoming regular-season fixtures during the extended absence of Anthony Edwards, with coaching staff relying on Dosunmu's backcourt production.