In the first game of the Western Conference quarterfinals, the Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Phoenix Suns 120-95 at the Target Center. Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 33 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists, while Karl-Anthony Towns added 19 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists. Rudy Gobert was also a force for Minnesota, contributing 14 points, 19 rebounds, and 2 assists.
The Timberwolves’ defense was impressive, holding the Suns to 44% shooting from the field and 9-of-28 from three-point range. Minnesota also dominated the rebounding battle, outrebounding Phoenix 52-28. The Timberwolves’ victory was their first in the playoffs since 2004. They will look to take a 2-0 lead in the series when they host the Suns in Game 2 on Tuesday night.
The Suns were led by Kevin Durant, who had 31 points, 7 rebounds, and 1 assist. Devin Booker added 18 points, 5 assists, and 2 rebounds. The Suns will need to play better in Game 2 if they want to avoid falling into a 2-0 hole in the series.
