Lakers vs. Timberwolves preview: Kobe Bryant and the Lakers open a brand new season

The wait is finally over for the Los Angeles Lakers. It's the dawn of a new season, with Kobe Bryant leading the way for the new core the front office has brought together. D'Angelo Russell, Julius Randle and Jordan Clarkson begin their journey together as a young talented trio, while a new set of veterans prepares to adjust to a new home. That the season opener is against the Minnesota TImberwolves only makes it more fascinating.

Perhaps the big story is seeing both top picks from the 2015 NBA Draft log their first "actual" minutes as prized lottery talents Karl-Anthony Towns and Russell tango for the first time. Andrew Wiggins is one of the best young players in the NBA, looking to follow-up on his Rookie of the Year campaign. Zach LaVine and Jordan Clarkson seem to love battling each other. Randle finally gets to re-launch his career after a devastating injury one year ago on the day.

If the storylines around the youth aren't drawing you in, then maybe the fact that Kobe and Kevin Garnett are facing off in honor of their younger days will -- a reminder of when these battles meant so much more to two prime players. It's certainly fitting that Bryant is facing a rival from his career to open what may be the final season in the NBA.

Maybe the Lakers and Timerwolves are both lottery teams again this season, but getting this mix of talent on the floor for opening night should make for an exciting game to crack open a fresh season of basketball. It's a good look for the NBA, embracing the opportunity to showcase some of the up and coming talent in the league on a huge night. As NBA fandom reaches a fever pitch in its return, it'll be Kobe Bryant and the Lakers closing out the 14-game schedule.

Enjoy the start to a brand new season! Lakers Late Night will be live after the game.

Time: 7:30 p.m. PT

TV: ESPN, TWCSN