Here's a snippet of the interview.
Here's a transcript of our conversation:
MT: Before last season you spoke about wanting to show people what you could do as the focal point of the team, and 20 and 10 was the result. What's on tap this time around?
Jefferson: It's trying to be a well-rounded player. I know I can go out and get 20 and 10, but this year I want to be more of a leader - a better leader. Plus, I want to be a better defensive player, and that's been a main focus this (offseason). I know I can score and rebound, but now we have some help with scoring in Mike Miller and rebounding with Kevin Love, so this year I want to lead this team and try to get to the playoffs. I really believe we have a great chance to fight for the playoffs, and that's something we want to do.
MT: What specifically have you been working on this offseason?
Jefferson: Honestly, I've been working on my left hand a lot, and I'm feeling a lot more comfortable with it. I've also been working on my jump shot, and then just doing everything I normally work on a lot better. The other thing is conditioning wise, I think that can help me a lot especially defensively.
MT: It was your first time playing all 82 games last season, and you had to work pretty hard battling double-teams as the focal point of Minnesota's offense. Towards March, it looked like you were fatiguing a bit?
Jefferson: That's right, it was my first year playing 82, and I was excited about that. And I know what to expect for (this season). There were times that I couldn't make the extra effort defensively, but it was because I was tired. I feel like if I'm in better shape, I'll be able to make (the effort).
MT: So no excuses about having to work harder on offense?
Jefferson: No excuses. I'm 23-years-old. I should be able to do it.
MT: What were your impressions when you learned that the Wolves had acquired Miller in the trade with Memphis on draft day.
Jefferson: Oh man, Mike is an underrated player. He doesn't get the respect that he deserves. One thing I didn't know about Mike is that he averages six or seven rebounds a game (6.7 in 2007-08), and he shot 43 percent from three (43.2). He's exactly what I needed, and we're both really excited to play with each other.
MT: As I've spoken about with (assistant coach) Jerry Sichting and others, Miller's being 6-8 makes it tough for opponents to contest his shot particularly if that defender leaves to double-team you.
Jefferson: That's right, and the other thing about Mike is that he can put the ball on the floor and get to the rack. Like I said, he's underrated, and I think he's the best thing (Wolves VP of Basketball Operations Kevin) McHale could have given to me.
MT: How did you feel about the way Minnesota fans seemed to embrace you throughout the season?
Jefferson: Oh, just great. Being traded for Kevin Garnett coming here, I didn't know what to expect because he was so loved here. I wasn't sure how I'd be treated by coming here for him, but the fans have welcomed me with open arms and let me know that they were happy to have me. I was excited to sign my five-year deal because I know I'm going to be here to help this team get to the playoffs and the championship.
MT: What were your thoughts on watching Team USA in the Olympics? Could you have helped?
Jefferson: Well honestly, they really didn't need a low-post player. If they had (a low-post player), it might have been a little better, but they had so many animals on that team... D-Wade stepped up big time, they had LeBron, Kobe, 'Melo. They had so much talent. But I think my time will come, if I continue to prove myself in the next few years, that I'll be valuable enough to go represent my country.
MT: Just keep getting better and if they call me...
Jefferson: Yeah. The cream's going to rise to the top. Keep taking care of your business and working hard, and you'll have your chance. Like the All-Star game this year, I had the numbers to make it but didn't. I didn't get down, I just worked hard and know that if I continue doing what I'm doing, I'll be an All-Star. That's how I look at things.
