NBA standings 2012: Timberwolves jump out to quick 3-1 start this season

The first weeks of the NBA shouldn't be considered a definitive source for evidence of how good each team will be over the balance of the season, but the Minnesota Timberwolves (3-1) have to be happy about their start. Minnesota has been forced to play without Ricky Rubio and Kevin Love, so the fact that there are hanging out with San Antonio Spurs (4-1), Dallas Mavericks (4-1), and Memphis Grizzlies (3-1) atop the Western Conference standings.

Clear signs that it's too early to rely on trends include the fact that the New York Knicks (3-0) are the only undefeated team remaining in the NBA, and the fact that the Los Angeles Lakers (1-4) are last place in the West.

Minnesota hasn't really defeated any quality opponents -- wins have come against the Sacramento Kings (2-3), Brooklyn Nets (1-2) and Orlando Magic (2-2) -- so there will be plenty of bigger tests that come for the Timberwolves in the next few months. If they can tread water until Love and Rubio return, it might be a very nice season for Minnesota.

You can head here for a full list of standings for the entire league.