Anthony Edwards led the charge with 37 points, while Nickeil Alexander-Walker contributed a season-high 28 points, as the Minnesota Timberwolves staged an impressive comeback to secure a 118-100 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday night.
The Clippers faced adversity, with Kawhi Leonard exiting the game due to back spasms between the first two quarters. Despite Leonard’s departure, the Timberwolves faced a daunting 22-point deficit early on. However, they rallied back, avoiding their first three-game losing streak of the season.
Mike Conley stepped up with 23 points, including five 3-pointers, as Minnesota capitalized on Leonard’s absence to seize control of the game. Rudy Gobert’s defensive effort was crucial in the comeback, although he left the game late with a rib injury, the severity of which remains uncertain.
Coach Chris Finch praised the team’s resilience and defensive intensity, highlighting their belief in each other and their ability to support one another on the court.
Alexander-Walker’s stellar performance, marked by five 3-pointers, added to the Timberwolves’ offensive firepower, helping them to improve to 2-2 on their current road trip.
Paul George led the Clippers with 22 points, while James Harden contributed 12 points. Despite the return of George and Leonard, who missed the Clippers’ previous game, Los Angeles struggled to match the Timberwolves’ energy and intensity.
Clippers coach Tyronn Lue acknowledged the Timberwolves’ toughness, emphasizing the need for his team to respond with greater resilience.
Leonard’s back issues have been ongoing, affecting his availability for the game. Meanwhile, Gobert returned from a hamstring injury but suffered a rib injury during the game.
Minnesota’s victory comes amid the absence of Karl-Anthony Towns, who underwent knee surgery and is expected to miss significant time. However, Finch remains confident in the team’s ability to navigate through adversity, citing last season’s experience dealing with injuries.
Despite early turnovers and a significant deficit, the Timberwolves showcased their resilience and defensive prowess to secure an important victory on the road.
