The Minnesota Timberwolves made a major statement in front of their home crowd Friday night, capturing a commanding 116-104 win and taking a 2-1 lead in the series. Fueled by a roaring Target Center, dominant performances from their stars, and clutch team basketball, the Wolves continued to prove they’re a legitimate force this postseason.
Right from the opening tip, Minnesota came out with intensity. The energy was unmistakable — this was a team locked in, ready to protect home court and swing momentum back in their favor. After a gritty Game 2 loss, they responded the way great teams do: with toughness, unity, and execution.
Anthony Edwards once again led the charge, showcasing why he’s becoming one of the brightest young stars in the league. He dropped 28 points on efficient shooting, grabbed 7 boards, and dished out 5 assists. But beyond the numbers, it was his swagger, confidence, and leadership that stood out. Whether it was slashing to the rim, drilling threes, or flexing on defense, Ant had the crowd eating out of the palm of his hand.
Karl-Anthony Towns followed suit with a strong performance of his own. After some inconsistent outings earlier in the series, KAT bounced back in a big way, finishing with 24 points and 11 rebounds. He dominated inside, showed touch from the midrange, and played with the kind of emotion Wolves fans have long been waiting to see from him in big moments.
The Wolves’ supporting cast also stepped up big. Mike Conley, the steady veteran, brought poise to the offense, adding 16 points and orchestrating possessions with his usual calm. Jaden McDaniels was everywhere defensively, pestering the opposing wings, jumping passing lanes, and hitting timely buckets when the defense collapsed.
And then there was Rudy Gobert — the defensive anchor. While his box score may not have popped, his presence in the paint altered countless shots and frustrated the opposition all night long. He also cleaned up on the glass, helping Minnesota win the rebounding battle — a key stat in playoff wins like this one.
What made this win even more impressive was how the Timberwolves handled adversity within the game. After building a double-digit lead in the third quarter, the opposing team made a push, cutting the lead to five. But instead of folding, the Wolves responded with a 12-2 run, capped by a corner three from Conley that sent the arena into chaos. That sequence summed up the game: Minnesota had an answer every time.
Defensively, the Wolves were connected and aggressive. They held their opponents to just 43% shooting from the field and forced multiple turnovers that turned into fast-break points. Every rotation was crisp. Every switch was disciplined. They weren’t just playing defense — they were dictating the pace and making life miserable for the other side.
Now with a 2-1 series lead, the Timberwolves have momentum firmly on their side heading into Game 4, which will also take place in Minneapolis. Another win would put them in the driver’s seat with a chance to close it out. But for now, they’re not looking too far ahead. One game at a time — that’s been the mantra all season.
For Minnesota fans, this is more than just a playoff win. It’s a sign that this franchise, often overlooked in recent years, is turning the corner. This isn’t just potential anymore — it’s production. It’s progress. It’s passion.
The Wolves defended their den, and they did it in style. A 116-104 win, a 2-1 series lead, and a fan base that’s fully locked in. The job’s not done, but the howls are getting louder.
