Jaden McDaniels had his best playoff performance, scoring 25 points and leading the Minnesota Timberwolves to a strong defensive effort in their 105-93 win over the Phoenix Suns. This victory gives the Timberwolves a 2-0 lead in their first-round series.
Mike Conley and Rudy Gobert also played well, each contributing 18 points to help counter the Suns’ defense, which limited Anthony Edwards to 15 points on 3-for-12 shooting after he scored 33 points in the first game.
The series now moves to Phoenix for Game 3 on Friday night. This is only the second time in franchise history that the Timberwolves have held a 2-0 series lead, the first being against Denver in 2004.
Karl-Anthony Towns, who scored 12 points, emphasized the team’s willingness to sacrifice for the greater good.
Despite efforts from Devin Booker (20 points), Kevin Durant (18 points), and Eric Gordon (15 points off the bench), the Suns struggled to get their high-scoring offense going.
The trio of Booker, Durant, and Bradley Beal shot a combined 18 for 45, with McDaniels being a key factor in their difficulties.
The Timberwolves took control of the game in the second half, capitalizing on Towns’ improved performance after early foul trouble for the Suns.
Phoenix faced further setbacks with Grayson Allen aggravating an ankle sprain in the third quarter. Minnesota’s momentum carried into the fourth quarter, energizing the crowd. Conley’s playmaking and a crucial three-pointer further solidified the Timberwolves’ lead.
