Timberwolves Secure Victory, Narrow Series Deficit

MINNEAPOLIS: In a dominant display at the Target Centre on Saturday, the Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder with a final score of 143-101. Anthony Edwards shone brightly, leading his team to victory in this NBA playoff matchup.

With this triumph in Game 3 of the Western Conference finals, the Timberwolves have reduced their series deficit to 2-1.

Edwards proved pivotal, amassing 30 points, distributing six assists, and securing nine rebounds. Julius Randle also made a significant contribution, adding 24 points, three assists, and four rebounds.

Edwards spearheaded the Timberwolves’ attack, as they outscored the Thunder 16-14 in the opening quarter, concluding at 34-14. With a comfortable 37-point advantage, Edwards spent the fourth quarter on the bench.

Reflecting on his mindset going into the game, Edwards conveyed that his focus was on applying relentless pressure and seizing every shooting opportunity.

Edwards’s Quote

“I was focused on applying intense pressure on the ball and taking every shot I could,” Edwards stated.

“During the second game, I felt like I found my rhythm, but my three-point shots weren’t connecting.

“I went back to the gym, watched my shots fall, and continued to trust my abilities. That’s all there is to it.”

This game marked Edwards’s 15th 30-point performance, positioning him fifth among players aged 23 or younger with the most such games.

The Timberwolves established a new record with their 72-41 halftime score, marking the most points scored in a half during a playoff game.

The Timberwolves extended their lead in the third and fourth quarters, scoring 35-29 and 36-31, respectively.

The 42-point margin represents the largest defeat in the Thunder’s postseason history.

For the Thunder, no player surpassed 14 points, with both Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Ajay Mitchell reaching that mark.