The Minnesota Timberwolves came into this game undefeated at home in 2023. They were playing the shorthanded Utah Jazz on MLK Day which is a special day in the country. Players talked about why it was important to play on Martin Luther King Jr Day and what he means to us all.
In the game, the Timberwolves were quick without Rudy Gobert who left the game early after aggravating his groin injury. In his absence, it was up to Naz Reid, Nathan Knight, and Luka Garza to try to slow down Walker Kessler. Tonight was Walker’s night as he was all over the boards and didn’t take no for an answer in the paint. It seemed as though he was able to get his hands on every loose ball and every rebound that came off the rim. Walker even showed off a lot of his post moves in the paint as well but he showcased his dominance in this one early. Once Rudy was ruled out Walker was able to go to work and finished the game with 20 points and 21 rebounds. He took over the game in the second half and was making some huge plays to keep the Jazz in the game even when the Timberwolves were pulling away. Jordan Clarkson made some tough shots down the stretch as well to keep the Jazz in the mix and eventually the lead. Clarkson finished with 21 points on the night and the Jazz needed every one of them.
The Timberwolves were in this game all night and had a lot of chances to win it down the stretch. Anthony Edwards was sensational all night as he was able to lead this Timberwolves crew in every way needed. Edwards was able to accomplish being the youngest player in NBA History with 500 career 3-pointers. Ant Man finished with 29 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 assists as he continues to make his push for All-Star voting. On the last play, Anthony had a chance to get to the rack or get fouled but might the right basketball play by kicking it out to McDaniels. The Timberwolves missed that shot but it showed a lot of maturity in Edward’s game and showed he was a true team player at that moment. D’Angelo Russell was able to add 21 points on the night as this was one of those games that went back and forth until someone had to win. The Timberwolves let this one slip away but overall they had this one right where they needed it and let it slip away.
Up next the Timberwolves play the Nuggets on Wednesday as they look to bounce back in the conference after tonight’s loss.
Photo Credit: (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images)
