The Minnesota Timberwolves needed to act quickly today to regain control of the series following the Golden State Warriors’ unexpected victory in Game 1. With the help of the Target Center fans, the Wolves were able to hold off the Curry-less Warriors in a double-digit thumping victory, tying the series at one game each.
Early in the game, the Timberwolves made a statement by outscoring the Warriors by 14 points in the first quarter, scoring 29 points. Minnesota’s scoring output increased from 27 points in the second quarter to 30 points in the fourth quarter as the Warriors’ offensive intensity increased. The Timberwolves had already won the game before the end of it, with the score not even close (117-93).
With 24 points, 7 rebounds, and 11 assists on 58.8% shooting, Julius Randle led all scorers. With 20 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists on 46.2% shooting, Anthony Edwards was not far behind. Nickeil Alexander-Walker scored 20 points, pulled down two rebounds, and dished out assists on 7–13 shooting while coming off the bench.
Even though the Warriors gave it their all in Game 2 and had a chance to take a 2-0 series lead, they were unable to match the competition tonight. With a stellar roster, the Timberwolves have even the score and maintained their hopes of winning an NBA championship through a remarkable team effort.
With a stat line of 17 points, seven rebounds, and four assists on 46.2% shooting, Jimmy Butler had a dismal game at best. The Warriors turned to him to fill in for Stephen Curry tonight. Jonathan Kuminga finished with 18 points, five rebounds, and one assist on 72.7% shooting, while Draymond Green finished with nine points, four rebounds, and five assists on 30% shooting.