This was not a statement game, they said. Too early in the season, they said. Too many of their number unavailable because of injuries: Terrell Brandon, Joe Smith and then, barely three minutes into this one, Gary Trent too.

They said.

So what are we to make of the Wolves' 120-102 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night at Target Center?

The Minnesota Timberwolves now also lead the Midwest Division after San Antonio's loss to Philidelphia.