Julius Randle set the tone early, scoring 16 of his 20 points in the first quarter, as the Minnesota Timberwolves cruised to a 108-80 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday night. The Timberwolves capitalized on their momentum to secure their third consecutive win after a prior four-game losing streak.
Randle’s hot start included four 3-pointers, all coming in the first half, as Minnesota built a commanding 27-point halftime lead that grew to as much as 41 in the second half. Anthony Edwards chipped in 16 points, while Josh Minott provided a spark off the bench with 13 points, contributing to the Timberwolves’ dominant performance.
Bones Hyland led the Clippers with 18 points, including a season-high five 3-pointers, and Derrick Jones Jr. added 14. However, the Clippers struggled to find a rhythm, ending their nine-game home winning streak. The Timberwolves outpaced the Clippers in transition, holding a stunning 32-8 advantage in fast-break points, including a 20-0 differential in the first half alone.
Minnesota’s victory reinforces their recent resurgence as they continue climbing in the standings and we have a grade for every one of their players who made the court on Wednesday night.Â
Julius Randle: B+
Stats: 20 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, 0 blocks, 1 turnover, 2 fouls, 8-16 FG, 4-9 3PT FG, 0-0 FT, 26 mins
Julius Randle set the tone with a scorching first quarter, scoring 16 points and hitting four 3-pointers to spark Minnesota’s early dominance. His efficiency from beyond the arc gave the Timberwolves a massive cushion they never relinquished. While his production waned in the second half, his early explosion was crucial in establishing the Timberwolves’ rhythm. Randle’s ability to stretch the floor opened driving lanes for teammates, showcasing his versatility.
Rudy Gobert: B+
Stats: 8 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists, 5 steals, 1 block, 0 turnovers, 2 fouls, 3-4 FG, 0-0 3PT FG, 2-2 FT, 29 mins
Rudy Gobert contributed in every facet, with a near triple-double performance punctuated by five steals, showcasing his defensive brilliance. His presence in the paint deterred Clippers’ drives and forced turnovers that led to transition opportunities. Although he didn’t score heavily, his seven assists highlight his growing ability to facilitate from the post, making him a valuable offensive and defensive anchor.
Anthony Edwards: B
Stats: 16 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals, 0 blocks, 2 turnovers, 3 fouls, 5-14 FG, 4-9 3PT FG, 2-2 FT, 26 mins
Anthony Edwards provided consistent scoring and defensive energy, with his four steals epitomizing the team’s active effort. His shot selection could have been better, but he made timely contributions when the Clippers attempted to rally. Edwards’ combination of defensive pressure and ability to hit from deep kept the Timberwolves in command throughout the game.
Josh Minott: B
Stats: 13 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, 1 block, 1 turnover, 2 fouls, 5-7 FG, 1-3 3PT FG, 2-3 FT, 21 mins
Josh Minott delivered a strong performance off the bench, bringing energy on both ends of the floor. His ability to crash the boards and finish efficiently added valuable depth to the Timberwolves’ rotation. With his defensive versatility and knack for timely scoring, Minott played a key role in maintaining Minnesota’s dominance, proving his value in extended minutes.
Jaden McDaniels: B-
Stats:Â 11 points, 5 rebounds, 0 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 1 turnover, 0 fouls, 5-9 FG, 1-2 3PT FG, 0-0 FT, 24 mins
McDaniels was steady, hitting his shots efficiently and contributing defensively without committing fouls. Though his performance wasn’t flashy, he provided reliable support to the Timberwolves’ core. He could have been more aggressive in creating opportunities, but his ability to fill gaps was instrumental in the team’s cohesive effort.
Mike Conley: B-
Stats:Â 11 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 1 turnover, 1 foul, 5-8 FG, 1-4 3PT FG, 0-0 FT, 20 mins
Mike Conley’s veteran presence helped control the pace, and his efficient scoring contributed to Minnesota’s first-half surge. However, his playmaking numbers were lower than usual, and his perimeter defense had lapses. Despite these shortcomings, Conley’s leadership and ability to hit key shots were valuable in keeping the Timberwolves in control.
Luka Garza: B-
Stats:Â 10 points, 3 rebounds, 0 assists, 1 steal, 0 blocks, 0 turnovers, 1 foul, 4-5 FG, 1-1 3PT FG, 1-3 FT, 8 mins
Garza was highly efficient in limited minutes, scoring 10 points and showing range with a made three-pointer. His scoring punch off the bench was a welcome boost. While his rebounding effort was adequate, his defensive impact was limited, and he’ll need to show more consistency to earn a larger role.Â
Naz Reid: C+
Stats:Â 4 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 0 steals, 2 blocks, 1 turnover, 1 foul, 1-4 FG, 0-2 3PT FG, 2-2 FT, 21 mins
Naz Reid’s energy was present, but he struggled offensively, missing most of his attempts. Defensively, his two blocks were a highlight, but his positioning could have prevented easy Clippers’ buckets. Reid needs to contribute more consistently on both ends as a versatile big to maximize his minutes.
Donte DiVincenzo: C
Stats:Â 3 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, 0 blocks, 2 turnovers, 1 foul, 1-5 FG, 1-4 3PT FG, 0-0 FT, 21 mins
Donte DiVincenzo had a quiet game, contributing defensively with two steals but failing to find his shooting touch. His inefficiency on offense limited his overall impact. Despite his struggles, his defensive instincts remain valuable, though he must find a way to score more reliably.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker: C
Stats:Â 8 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, 1 block, 4 turnovers, 2 fouls, 3-9 FG, 2-7 3PT FG, 0-0 FT, 22 mins
Nickeil Alexander-Walker showed flashes of playmaking but was turnover-prone, which offset his positives. His outside shooting was streaky, leaving him unable to provide consistent offensive support. His defensive activity helped, but reducing errors and improving efficiency are areas he must address moving forward.
PJ Dozier: N/A
Stats: 3 points, 0 rebounds, 2 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 0 turnovers, 0 fouls, 1-1 FG, 1-1 3PT FG, 0-4 FT, 8 mins
Dozier made the most of his brief stint, hitting a three-pointer and dishing out two assists. His missed free throws, however, were a blemish on an otherwise solid cameo. With limited minutes, it’s hard to gauge his overall impact, but he showed flashes of competence.
Daishen Nix: N/A
Stats:Â 1 point, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 1 turnover, 1 foul, 0-1 FG, 0-1 3PT FG, 1-2 FT, 7 mins
Daishen Nix contributed little in his limited time, missing his only field-goal attempt and turning the ball over once. His free throw shooting offered a slight positive. He’ll aim to show more assertiveness and poise to secure meaningful minutes in the rotation, especially in blowouts.Â
Terrence Shannon Jr.: N/A
Stats:Â 0 points, 0 rebounds, 2 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 0 turnovers, 0 fouls, 0-2 FG, 0-1 3PT FG, 0-0 FT, 8 mins
Shannon struggled to make an impression, missing his shots and failing to contribute much outside of two assists. His limited impact suggests it would be unfair to give him a grade as a result.Â
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