The Minnesota Timberwolves Fall To Zion & The Pelicans (117-106)

The Minnesota Timberwolves Fall To Zion & The Pelicans (117-106)

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by | Jan 3, 2024 | Featured, Minnesota Timberwolves, NBA

tonight would be the fourth meeting between the New Orleans pelicans and the Minnesota Timberwolves. This also gave the Minnesota Timberwolves fans a chance to finally watch Zion Williamson in person this season. Both teams match up perfectly against each other in tonight was another clear indication of that.

The game started out, neck and neck as the pelicans and Timberwolves were going shot for shot. It wasn’t until Rudy. Gobert got into foul trouble when things started to change for the Minnesota Timberwolves. Once Rudy Opia picked up two files, the pelicans made a point to attack the paint and both Zion, Williamson, and Brandon Ingram took full advantage of that tonight. Once Rudy Gobert was taken out the game early. It forced Minnesota to go smaller when they put Naz Reid in the game. Naz Reid does complement playing alongside Karl-Anthony Towns and Anthony Edwards, but it just didn’t work out on the defensive end tonight.

The Minnesota Timberwolves did a good job defending Brandon Ingram as he was trying to make tough shots all night long and he finished with 19 points on the night. The biggest problem for Minnesota was Zion Williamson was going to the paint and attacking the defenders that were in foul trouble. Once Zion made his decision to go to the rack, it was tough for the Minnesota defense, because when Zion attacked the paint, he drew the defense in and kicked it out to wide-open shooters like CJ McCollum, who are able to take advantage. Zion Williamson finished with 27 points and he was able to bully inside the paint all night long without Rudy Gobert there to help anchor the interior defense. If Rudy Gobert wasn’t in foul trouble, this game would’ve went a lot differently in my opinion but it’s tough to take away a defensive player of the year and try to replace that against the talented Pelicans team.

It seems like every single time the Timberwolves were making a run that CJ McCollum or Brandon Ingram made a tough shot that was contested, and there was nothing that can be done about it. The pelicans have some tough shot makers on the team and so do the Minnesota Timberwolves tonight was just the pelicans night. Can’t do much about it, but shake a man’s hand and say good shot.

The Minnesota Timberwolves didn’t go away quietly, as Anthony Edwards finished with 35 points on the night with 5 assists and 4 rebounds. Anthony Edwards was able to turn it up in the second half but the lack of stops on the other end made it tough to come out with a victory. The Pelicans didn’t beat Anthony Edwards tonight he was 11/22 from the field and just didn’t get the calls that he’s accustomed to getting. Karl-Anthony Towns had an off night as well and was able to see his shot go down in the 2nd half. This Timberwolves team is talented and loaded enough to hand with any team but tonight just wasn’t the night.

The Timberwolves will be looking a bounce back against the Houston Rockets on Friday as they look for their 25th win of the season.

 

 

Photo Credit: (Photo by Jordan Johnson/NBAE via Getty Images)

Jan 3, 2024 No Comments
Minnesota Timberwolves Defeated The LA Lakers (108-106) In A Nail Biter

Minnesota Timberwolves Defeated The LA Lakers (108-106) In A Nail Biter

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by | Dec 31, 2023 | Featured, Minnesota Timberwolves, NBA

The Minnesota Timberwolves came in today’s game no and it was a huge Saturday night match up against LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Today, LeBron turned 39 years old and this season alone, shows that the age hasn’t caught up to him.

LeBron was questionable coming into tonight’s game as he wasn’t feeling well, but ended up shooting up in front of the Minnesota crowd. The target center was filled with purple and gold for the Lakers but it was the Timberwolves fans who had the last laugh as Anthony Edwards showed why he’s one of the best young stars in the NBA.

It’ll be another star, Anthony Davis who came out putting the Lakers on his back as the first quarter he was able to get every single thing he wanted inside and out the paint. Anthony, I was able to be aggressive to the point that Karl-Anthony Towns got into foul trouble. The Lakers took advantage of the foul trouble with Karl-Anthony Towns as they continue to pound the paint and make the best of the perimeter defense. Anthony Davis finished the first quarter with 17 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists. Anthony Davis was a force tonight, and it seemed like he was able to get to all of his spots with ease. Rudy Gobert did a great job on him with some of the shots that Anthony Davis was making were unreal. When Anthony Davis plays like he did tonight, he’s easily one of the top five or top 10 players in the NBA with no hesitation. The way that Anthony Davis can playoff LeBron and Austin Reaves is impressive and it was a sight to see.

 

Anthony Davis finished the game with 33 points, 17 rebounds, and 8 assists but After the first quarter, the Minnesota Timberwolves were able to make adjustments to slowing down a little bit. In the second half the birthday boy, LeBron James showed up as he was able to get his teammates involved and he was able to penetrate to the basket anytime you wanted tonight. LeBron finished with 26 points but in his eyes, it should’ve been 27 as he had a chance to tie the game up after the Timberwolves were up by seven points with less than a minute ago. The Timberwolves made some mental errors that could’ve cost of the game luckily, LeBron’s shot was called into instead of a three, or we still would’ve been playing in overtime probably right now.

The highlight for the Minnesota Timberwolves tonight was Anthony Edwards, as he’s continue to shine bright like the star he is. Anthony hours finished with 31 points tonight and he was able to put the Timberwolves on his back, making some tough shots in attack in the basket when the team needed points to stick around. This game was neck and neck, but it was a true test for Anthony Edwards as he showed everyone that he’s ready for the clutch moments and he’s ready to take on any challenge in front of him.

Anthony Edwards lead the way, but the Timberwolves wouldn’t be in the wind column without Naz Reid. Tonight Naz Reid was sensational and he picked up the Timberwolves team when Karl-Anthony Towns got into foul trouble. Some of the stuff Naz Reid does in the open court is impressive and unseen from big man in the league. Naz Reid went coast-to-coast tonight on the Lakers, and finished with a euro step flush and it’s stuff like that that makes Mr. Reid special. Both Reid and Edwards put the team on the back tonight as they were able to go pound for pound with the Los Angeles Lakers. This is a true test for the Minnesota Timberwolves to see who exactly they are when it comes to playing high-quality teams.

Up Next Minnesota Timberwolves will be heading to New York to be playing the Knicks in Madison Square Garden. The next just finished the trade today sending Quickley & RJ Barrett to Toronto in exchange for OG Anunoby so the Timberwolves will get the chance to look at the new look Knicks on Monday.

 

 

Photo Credit: Photo by David Berding/Getty Images)

Dec 31, 2023 No Comments
SneakerReporter NFL Week 13: Scores and Predictions

SneakerReporter NFL Week 13: Scores and Predictions

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by | Dec 3, 2023 | Featured, NFL

Indianapolis Colts (6-5) vs Tennessee Titans (4-7)

The Indianapolis Colts have been struggling as of late on the offense end but they still remain over .500 on the season. With Jonathon Taylor out for the next three weeks they will look at the Zack Moss to get the running game going behind the passing attack for a Gardner Minshew. Look for them to lean on the defense in this game as they try to hold Derrick Henry to a limited amount of running.

If the Tennessee Titans are going to win, they will need Will Levis to play a superb perfect game against the Colts defense. Look for Levis to lean on DeAndre Hopkins and Derrick Henry all game long if they’re going to be successful against the Colts defense. This could easily turn into one of those field goal games when one play and can win it.

Score Prediction: Titans 24 – Colts 20

 

 

Atlanta Falcons (5-6) vs New York Jets (4-7)

The Atlanta Falcons are coming into this game. Need to win to get to 500 on the season. If that is going to happen, they need to make sure that they play through Bijan Robinson talented, rookie, running back that has been turning the corner mid season. Desmond Ridder has been serviceable as of late getting about a drake London and Kyle Pitts but if Atlanta is gonna win this game, they need to maximize on the ground. They can’t turn the ball over to the Jets who wait on turnovers to make the best of every opportunity.

The Jets have Tim Boyle at quarterback, and it’s been rough as late. He’s going to need Breece Hall and Garrett Wilson to show up big-time if he’s going to lead them to victory. The defense is going to do their job but it’s up to the offense to create enough momentum at home to carry this team to victory. If the Jets can limit their turnovers this could be a game I see them securing.

Score Prediction: Falcons 17 – Jets 10

 

 

Detroit Lions (8-3) vs New Orleans Saints (5-6)

The Detroit Lions have been dominant all season long when it comes to both sides of the ball. Jared Goff has this offense looking unstoppable with a St Brown and the running backs Montgomery and Gibbs this team can be special. The Lions play with that grit and toughness every single week and it’s paid off since week one against the Kansas City Chiefs. Look for the Lions to rely on the running game, but also open things up in the play action against the Saints. The defense has been special as well, and will look to contain Derek Carr and Alvin Kamara if they do that this could be a quick game that can get out of hand.

The Saints will need Cameron Jordan and that defense to create some turnovers, so that Carr and Kamara can have some opportunities to score. The Saints have been shaky as of late, but will look for this game to get back on track. The Saints can’t turn the ball over as it could be a long day for them against the Lions.

Score Prediction: Lions 38 – Saints 24

 

Denver Broncos (6-5) vs Houston Texans (6-5)

both the Denver Broncos and Houston Texans coming in today’s game with a lot of momentum. CJ Stroud has been phenomenal all year with his arm and his legs. If the Texans are going to win this game, he will need to continue to do that against a Defense that has been stingy since losing to Miami early in the season. CJ Stroud already has the offensive rookie player of the year in his back pocket, but will need to showcase why exactly today against the Broncos. Devin Singletary, and Tank Dell have showed up big time to help Stroud and that will need to continue against the Broncos.

Russell Wilson has been on fire as of late leading this team to a great win streak, and he’s been able to get the most out of the receivers. If the Broncos are going to win today, they need Williams and Perine to set the tone on the ground. This broncos defense has stepped up big-time lately, and will need to show up today in a huge effort to slow down CJ Stroud if they do that, they will be able to get a victory but that’s a huge if.

Score Prediction: Texans 24 – Broncos 20

 

Los Angeles Chargers (4-7) vs New England Patriots (2-9)

it hurts my heart to write this but the New England Patriots are in trouble at home against the Los Angeles Chargers. This is the most winning game for the Chargers as they can fall out of playoff, contention, and the season to be over. I’ll look for Justin Herbert and Keenan Allen to link up all day against the New England Patriots who are banged up in the secondary. This is to get right game for the Charg as they are playing to pretty much save their coaches job today. If Los Angeles can get the running game going with Austin Ekeler, it could be a long day in Foxboro for the Patriots. Look for the Chargers defense to get to Bailey Zappe early and quickly.

The only chance the Patriots have in this game is if Zappe can come out looking like the second coming of Tom Brady. Other than that expect a lot of mistakes and missed opportunities from the Patriots today who will be without Pop Douglas as well. The defense will need to step up for New England if they will have any chance today.

Score Prediction: Chargers 28 – Patriots 13

 

Arizona Cardinals (2-10) vs Pittsburgh Steelers (7-4)

this could be one of those trap games for the Pittsburgh Steelers as the Cardinals record doesn’t match the talent on the field. The Cardinals got Kyler Murray back in the lineup and they have James Connor back in the lineup, which is huge for them in this game against Pittsburgh. James Conner will be going against his former team and he’s going to want to show out in the running game. Kyler Murray’s going to have to avoid TJ Watt if he wants to be successful today and he will need to get the ball in Hollywood Brown’s hands. If the Cardinals can do that in their defense can hold up against the new high-powered Pittsburgh Steelers offense than anything is possible.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have a new offensive coordinator and they look like a brand new team last week earning over 400 total yards. Look for Kenny Pickett to continue to look for Deontay Johnson and Kenny Pickens, if they’re going to be successful against the Cardinals defense. Jaylen, Warren and Najee Harris have been spectacular on the ground, and if the Steelers are going to win, they will need them to be at the top of the game mixed with a Defense. Minkah Fitz Patrick said he’s playing today and that’s a huge help as they will need him to slow down Kyler Murray with TJ Watt. I look for this to be a very close game.

Score Prediction: Cardinals 24 – Steelers 21


Miami Dolphins (8-3) vs Washington Commanders (4-8)

this game is going to be a beat down. The Miami Dolphins have been on a mission all season long that will continue today. Look for Tua Tagovailoa to show out with his arm today getting the ball to Hill and Waddle. It’s going to be a huge help as well getting Achane back into the lineup as well. This dolphins offense is scary for any defense because you don’t know if they could take it to the house on any place but if Washington is going to have a chance they will need to slow down Tua. The Dolphins can beat you anyway on the office of end of the ball in the defensive end so this could be a long and hard task for the Commanders.

The only chance the Commanders have in this game is if they use the running game to keep the ball from the Dolphins. If you get into a passing game against Miami, it could be a long day at the office. This game will determine the coaching situation in Washington as well moving forward, and with that being said, Ron Rivera could be in a little bit of trouble as far as the hot seat. Washington doesn’t have the pieces to compete against Miami and that will be on display today.

Score Prediction: Dolphins 38 – Commanders 24

 

Carolina Panthers (1-10) vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-7)

This game will be determined by the defenses as both quarterbacks have struggled this season. Tampa Bay has Baker Mayfield and he has better weapon surrounding him in Bryce Young does in Carolina. If Baker Mayfield can get the ball to Godwin and Evans, it could be a long day for the Carolina Panthers. Richard White has been doing his thing on the ground as well and he will continue to run and catch out the backfield which is going to be tricky for the Carolina Panthers defense. The Buccaneers defense will be the reason why the Carolina Panthers lose this game. If it’s going to happen, it won’t be a shoot out.

Bryce Young had to hear all week how the Carolina Panthers want to CJ Stroud so I’ll look for him to come out proving everybody why he was number one in the NFL draft this past year. With that being said, it’s a division game in that Tampa Bay defense is tough so look for Bryce to depend on the running game in his defense to help them if they’re going to get out of this game with the victory. I do expect him to throw for over 200 yards in this game, but it won’t be enough to get the job done.

Score Prediction: Buccaneers 17 – Panthers 9

 

Cleveland Browns (7-4) vs Los Angeles Rams (5-6)

The Cleveland Browns have been surprising everybody this season and they will have former Super Bowl quarterback, Joe Flacco leading the charge today for the Browns. If the Browns are going to win this game, it will be need to to be done with a Defense and the running game. Look for Joe Flacco to depend on Amari Cooper and Kareem Hunt, his reliable Veterans to get him to the finish line today against the Rams. Myles Garrett will have to get to Matthew Stafford a couple of times in order for the Browns to slow down the high powered offense on the Rams.

The Rams have been banged up as of late, but they still have Cooper Kupp and he’s one of the best in the game look for Matthew Stafford to find Kupp quick and in a hurry against the Cleveland Browns defense. Williams has been special in the backfield, and they will lean on him in this game with his running ability. It’s going to come down to turnovers and whoever can get the most or slow down the opposite offense will win this game. Aaron Donald is a problem and will be making it tough on Joe Flacco in his game back.

Score Prediction: Rams 27 – Browns 20

 

San Francisco 49ers (8-3) vs Philadelphia Eagles (10-1)

This will probably be the game of the year as we get a rematch of the NFC championship game from last year but this time everyone’s healthy. I’ll look for both teams to be physical as they match up perfectly.

Jalen Hurts has been giving MVP praise from the media as of late in this game could propel him to that mission of his. The ultimate goal is a Championship for Jalen, but this is as close as it gets when it comes to a tough game. Look for him to find AJ Brown and Devonta Smith early in this game. Jalen Hurts Will have to put the team on his back today against the 49ers but he’s been special with his arm in his legs all season long. If the Eagles want to show that they can win the Super Bowl this year this will be a step in the right direction. The defense has been special all year long as well and they will have a lot of trouble trying to hold Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle and Deebo Samuels, but will they be up to the task. The Eagles are as complete as they can be, and have been showing the whole NFL that they can do this on a weekly basis. They should be a slugfest of a game today.

Brock Purdy will have to be turnover free today if the 49ers are gonna win this game against the Eagles. Brock Purdy get hurt in the NFC Championship Game and will need to showcase his talent today against the Eagles defense. It will be special to see Brock Purdy go toe to toe with the MVP, caliber quarterback, and I believe with the playmakers that he has he could be able to be successful today against the Eagles defense. Look for Christian McCaffrey to have a huge game today as the 49ers are going to depend on him to carry them in the passing and running game.

Score Prediction: 49ers 24 – Eagles 20

 

 

 

 

Dec 3, 2023 No Comments
The Minnesota Timberwolves 3 Big Men Lift Them To Victory Over Charlotte (123-117)

The Minnesota Timberwolves 3 Big Men Lift Them To Victory Over Charlotte (123-117)

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by | Dec 2, 2023 | Featured, Minnesota Timberwolves, NBA

The Minnesota Timberwolves came in to Charlotte, knowing that they would be playing without Anthony Edwards as he’s nursing her hip pointer. With that being said, Karl-Anthony Towns, Mike Conley, and Rudy Gobert being the veterans on the team, would have to step it up. There’s a lot of opportunity for the team to grow with Anthony Edwards out and that will only help the rotation, even more when he gets back.

The Minnesota Timberwolves were able to establish themselves in the half court defense against the Charlotte Hornets. It was the fast break points that will give him the Minnesota Timberwolves a hard time in this game. Players like Terry Rozier and Miles Bridges were able to get whatever they needed and wanted in transition against the Timberwolves in that first half. It didn’t help that Karl-Anthony towns got into foul trouble as he picked up three huge fouls that had Coach Chris Finch go to Naz Reid early in this one. Naz Reid was instant offense tonight, as he did everything inside and outside against the Charlotte Hornets to the point he was able to exploit mismatches. Naz finished with 23 points, five rebounds and 2 assists. When Naz is playing like he did tonight this Timberwolves team is really hard to beat. Karl-Anthony Towns finished with 28 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists as he was able to keep the Timberwolves in this game with his scoring and leadership.

When the Hornets went on some runs it was KAT that was able to come back in the game and put a stop to that asap. Rudy Gobert was a beast in the paint tonight as he was able to score 26 points and grabbed 12 rebounds tonight. Rudy had 8 dunks tonight making that the most he’s ever had with the Timberwolves but his defense is where he shined tonight. He was blocking shots left and right while being a true defensive anchor. The Hornets didn’t have an answer for Rudy down low as he had his way with Mark Williams.

Terry Rozier got hot in this game and he was able to make some tough baskets in this one to keep the Hornets alive. Rozier has been on a tear since coming back from his injury and he put on a show for the home crowd but it wasn’t enough to get the win. Rozier finished with 23 points and Miles Bridges finished with 22 points tonight.

Up Next, the Minnesota Timberwolves play against the San Antonio Spurs and Victor Wembanyama. It should be a great game in Minnesota as the Timberwolves will look to improve to 16-4 in front of the home crowd.

 

(Photo by Matt Kelley/Getty Images)

 

Dec 2, 2023 No Comments