By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The Minnesota Timberwolves kicked off their quest for NBA playoff glory on a high note after out-maneuvering the Phoenix Suns, 120-95, during their first-round Western Conference matchup on April 21, 2024.
Despite trailing early in the game, the Timberwolves banked on their dominant rebounding to create some separation in the second quarter, grabbing a 10-point advantage heading into the second half.
Anthony Edwards was a monster for the Timberwolves, dropping 33 points built from an efficient 14/24 shooting from the field to go alongside nine rebounds, six assists, and two steals.
It was Edwards who acted as the catalyst for the Timberwolves in the second half, putting on a show midway through the third with his wide array of offensive moves.
After Edwards’ resurgence, the whole Minnesota team then picked up their pace and shooting groove to torch the Suns in the final 12 minutes of the game.
Aside from Edwards’ consistent scoring display, their balanced offensive attack also neutralized Phoenix’s ability to score in spurts as four other players also entered the double-digit scoring mark.
Leading the way for the wolf pack is Karl Anthony-Towns who chipped in 19 points, seven rebounds, four assists, and a steal.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Minnesota’s young shooting guard, also shot the lights out in Game 1 and added 18 points, four rebounds, four steals, and two dimes.
Minnesota’s ever-reliable defensive center, Rudy Gobert, stuffed the stat sheets and tallied a double-double performance of 14 points, 16 rebounds, and two assists.
On the other hand, Kevin Durant was the only Phoenix player to go over the 20-point mark, pulling off a 31-point performance to go with seven rebounds, an assist, and a steal.
Minnesota will look to maintain its momentum and aim a 2-0 lead on April 24, 2024, as they meet in the hardwood once again for Game 2 of their first-round clash.
