Timberwolves Show Resilience in Narrow Loss to Celtics
The Minnesota Timberwolves put up a valiant effort against the Boston Celtics on Thursday night, falling just short in a 118-115 thriller. Despite the loss, there were plenty of positives to take away from the game, as the Wolves continue to prove they can compete with the NBA’s elite, even while going through an extended rough patch over the first two-plus months of the season.
As expected from two of the league’s most frequent 3-point bombers, both teams came out firing from beyond the arc, combining for more three-point attempts in the first quarter than any teams in any quarter so far this season in the NBA. The Wolves built an early lead and were up by seven after the first, but the Celtics stormed back in the second quarter to take an 11-point advantage into halftime.
The key to Minnesota’s second-half comeback was the emergence of what can accurately be called The Good Lineup. This unit, consisting of Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Naz Reid, Donte DiVincenzo, Josh Minott, and Jaden McDaniels, provided a spark off the bench and helped erase the deficit. Their energy and versatility on both ends of the floor were crucial in getting the Wolves back into the game.
One of the most impressive aspects of this lineup is its ability to play five-out offensively while maintaining switchability on defense. All five players can shoot, handle the ball to some degree, and defend multiple positions. This flexibility allows for creative offensive sets and stifling defensive rotations.
Turnovers and Three-Point Differential sink the Timberwolves
While the Wolves showed heart and resilience, two factors ultimately led to their downfall: turnovers and three-point shooting disparity.
Minnesota committed 16 turnovers compared to Boston’s mere three, leading to additional possessions for the Celtics. This, combined with Boston’s 18 extra three-point attempts, proved to be the difference in a game decided by just three points.
Anthony Edwards had an up-and-down performance, finishing with 15 points, 6 assists, and 2 turnovers. While he showed flashes of brilliance, particularly with his scoring early and playmaking in the third quarter, there were moments of indecision when faced with double teams. Moving forward, Ant will need to make quicker decisions and trust his teammates to make plays when he gives up the ball.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Timberwolves’ performance against the Celtics, tune into the Locked On Wolves podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Wolves Podcast:
• Julius Randle’s impressive 27-point performance
• Jaden McDaniels’ offensive outburst and defensive effort on Jayson Tatum
• Josh Minott’s impact in limited minutes and the case for increased playing time
