Patrick Beverley wasn't at Target Center for the Timberwolves' season-opening win as her served a one-game suspension for shoving Chris Paul during last season's Western Conference finals.
"Served my time like a grown man," Beverley said after practice Friday.
Though he wasn't present, Beverley still had an impact on the Wolves' defensive effort, with coach Chris Finch saying after the game Beverley was the one who helped "set the tone" for their effort at that end of the floor even without being there.
That has been a common theme throughout training camp. Teammates have credited Beverley with bringing the leadership and focus on the defensive end the Wolves haven't had in recent seasons.