Wolves’ One-Two Punch: Edwards and Walker Lead the Charge
In the NBA Western Conference playoffs first round matchup between the surging Minnesota Timberwolves and the Phoenix Suns, the Wolves claimed solid victories in the first two games on their home turf. In the third game, held at the Suns’ home court, Phoenix found themselves in a desperate situation. Despite a strong scoring performance from Kevin Durant in the first half, the Suns faltered, allowing Nickeil Alexander-Walker to spearhead a 36-20 scoring surge in the third quarter, establishing a commanding 22-point lead for the Wolves and securing a victory in advance.
Suns Struggle to Keep Pace in First Half
The Suns, after two unsuccessful attempts to defeat the Timberwolves on their home court, returned to their warm home in Phoenix on the 27th. However, the Timberwolves quickly took control with an 8-0 run led by Rudy Gobert, establishing a 17-8 lead early in the game. Despite efforts from Eric Gordon off the bench, who scored 10 points to narrow the gap, the Suns found themselves trailing. However, Anthony Edwards’ crucial free throws helped the Wolves maintain a 2-point lead.
Wolves Maintain Lead Despite Suns’ Efforts
In the second quarter, the Timberwolves aggressively extended their lead, while Bradley Beal and Devin Booker of the Suns managed to cut the deficit. However, Mike Conley’s timely contributions halted the Suns’ momentum, helping the Timberwolves maintain a 59-53 lead at halftime.
Wolves Pull Away in Third Quarter Surge
After halftime, the Timberwolves regained their outside shooting prowess, with Conley, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Alexander-Walker hitting consecutive three-pointers to spark a 12-0 run. This pushed their lead to a comfortable 15 points. Despite efforts from Durant and Booker to keep the Suns in the game, the Wolves’ relentless scoring, including contributions from Alexander-Walker and Naz Reid, extended their lead to 22 points by the end of the third quarter.
Suns Fight Back in Fourth Quarter, But Fall Short
Despite a valiant effort from the Suns to stage a comeback in the fourth quarter, led by Durant and Booker, they struggled to close the gap. Anthony Edwards repeatedly drew fouls and converted free throws to maintain the Wolves’ lead. With Josh Okogie’s ejection from the game due to a flagrant foul on Gobert, the Wolves secured a decisive 20-point lead, sealing their victory. In the end, the Timberwolves triumphed over the Suns with a score of 126-109.
Historic Win for Timberwolves
The Timberwolves’ three consecutive victories in the playoff series mark a historic first for the franchise. Anthony Edwards led the charge with an impressive performance of 36 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists, supported by Towns’ double-double of 18 points and 13 rebounds. Gobert contributed 9 points and 14 rebounds, while Conley added 15 points and 7 assists, and Alexander-Walker chipped in 16 points off the bench.
Top Performances from Suns Stars Not Enough
Despite strong performances from Bradley Beal with 28 points, Devin Booker with 23 points and 8 assists, and Kevin Durant with 25 points and 5 assists, the Suns fell short. Royce O’Neale’s limited contribution of only 5 rebounds and 2 assists in 24 minutes of play highlighted the Suns’ struggles. (Yaman88)