The Minnesota Timberwolves vs Phoenix Suns clashed on April 28, 2024, in a pivotal game as the regular NBA season neared its conclusion. Both teams were vying for crucial playoff positioning, making this matchup a high-stakes affair with significant implications for the Western Conference standings. The game took place at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona, and featured a blend of established stars and emerging talents.
Game Overview
- Date: April 28, 2024
- Location: Footprint Center, Phoenix, Arizona
- Attendance: 17,071
- Final Score:
- Minnesota Timberwolves: 110
- Phoenix Suns: 102
- Broadcast: TNT
Starting Lineups
Minnesota Timberwolves
- Anthony Edwards (G)
- Height: 6’4″
- Weight: 225 lbs
- College: Georgia
- Karl-Anthony Towns (C)
- Height: 6’11”
- Weight: 248 lbs
- College: Kentucky
- Rudy Gobert (C)
- Height: 7’1″
- Weight: 258 lbs
- Country: France
- Mike Conley (G)
- Height: 6’1″
- Weight: 175 lbs
- College: Ohio State
- Jaden McDaniels (F)
- Height: 6’9″
- Weight: 185 lbs
- College: Washington
Phoenix Suns
- Kevin Durant (F)
- Height: 6’10”
- Weight: 240 lbs
- College: Texas
- Devin Booker (G)
- Height: 6’5″
- Weight: 206 lbs
- College: Kentucky
- Bradley Beal (G)
- Height: 6’4″
- Weight: 207 lbs
- College: Florida
- Deandre Ayton (C)
- Height: 7’0″
- Weight: 250 lbs
- College: Arizona
- Grayson Allen (G)
- Height: 6’4″
- Weight: 198 lbs
- College: Duke
Timberwolves vs Phoenix Suns Game Flow and Highlights
First Quarter
The Timberwolves came out of the gate with a focused defensive approach, limiting the Suns’ star-studded lineup to tough shots. Anthony Edwards set the tone early with aggressive drives to the basket and efficient scoring. On the Suns’ side, Kevin Durant countered with his usual offensive prowess, scoring 10 points in the quarter. The first quarter ended with the Timberwolves leading 28-24.
Second Quarter
In the second quarter, the Suns adjusted their strategy, emphasizing ball movement and creating open looks for their shooters. Devin Booker and Bradley Beal found their rhythm, combining for 18 points in the quarter. The Timberwolves responded with a balanced attack, as Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert controlled the paint. Mike Conley’s leadership and playmaking kept the Timberwolves’ offense flowing smoothly. The Suns managed to take a slight lead by halftime, 54-52.
Third Quarter
The third quarter was a showcase of the Timberwolves’ defensive resilience. Jaden McDaniels and Rudy Gobert anchored the defense, disrupting the Suns’ offensive flow. Anthony Edwards continued to be a force on offense, scoring 12 points in the quarter. The Suns struggled to find consistency, as Kevin Durant and Devin Booker faced relentless defensive pressure. The Timberwolves capitalized on the Suns’ turnovers and missed shots, ending the quarter with a 78-70 lead.
Fourth Quarter
The fourth quarter was a test of endurance and composure for both teams. The Suns made a late push to close the gap, with Bradley Beal and Deandre Ayton contributing crucial points. However, the Timberwolves’ defense held firm, and Karl-Anthony Towns took over in the final minutes, scoring 10 points to seal the victory. Despite the Suns’ efforts, the Timberwolves emerged victorious with a final score of 110-102.
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Timberwolves vs Phoenix Suns Match Player Statistics
Minnesota Timberwolves
- Anthony Edwards
- Points: 28
- Rebounds: 6
- Assists: 4
- Steals: 2
- Blocks: 1
- Field Goal Percentage: 52%
- Karl-Anthony Towns
- Points: 24
- Rebounds: 11
- Assists: 3
- Steals: 1
- Blocks: 2
- Field Goal Percentage: 48%
- Rudy Gobert
- Points: 12
- Rebounds: 14
- Assists: 1
- Steals: 0
- Blocks: 3
- Field Goal Percentage: 60%
- Mike Conley
- Points: 10
- Rebounds: 3
- Assists: 8
- Steals: 1
- Blocks: 0
- Field Goal Percentage: 40%
- Jaden McDaniels
- Points: 14
- Rebounds: 5
- Assists: 2
- Steals: 1
- Blocks: 1
- Field Goal Percentage: 50%
Phoenix Suns
- Kevin Durant
- Points: 26
- Rebounds: 7
- Assists: 4
- Steals: 1
- Blocks: 1
- Field Goal Percentage: 45%
- Devin Booker
- Points: 22
- Rebounds: 4
- Assists: 5
- Steals: 2
- Blocks: 0
- Field Goal Percentage: 47%
- Bradley Beal
- Points: 18
- Rebounds: 3
- Assists: 6
- Steals: 1
- Blocks: 1
- Field Goal Percentage: 42%
- Deandre Ayton
- Points: 14
- Rebounds: 10
- Assists: 2
- Steals: 0
- Blocks: 2
- Field Goal Percentage: 55%
- Grayson Allen
- Points: 8
- Rebounds: 2
- Assists: 3
- Steals: 0
- Blocks: 0
- Field Goal Percentage: 36%
Timberwolves vs Phoenix Suns Match Key Highlights
Anthony Edwards’ Offensive Prowess
Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with a stellar offensive performance, scoring 28 points on 52% shooting. His ability to drive to the basket and finish through contact was a significant factor in the Timberwolves’ success. Edwards also contributed defensively, with two steals and a block.
Karl-Anthony Towns’ Dominance in the Paint
Karl-Anthony Towns recorded a double-double with 24 points and 11 rebounds. His presence in the paint was instrumental in controlling the game’s tempo. Towns’ defensive efforts, including two blocks, helped the Timberwolves maintain their lead in the crucial moments of the game.
Rudy Gobert’s Defensive Impact
Rudy Gobert was a force on the defensive end, grabbing 14 rebounds and blocking three shots. His ability to alter shots and protect the rim was vital in limiting the Suns’ scoring opportunities. Gobert’s efficiency on offense, with 12 points on 60% shooting, complemented his defensive contributions.
Kevin Durant’s Scoring and Leadership
Kevin Durant led the Suns with 26 points and showcased his leadership throughout the game. Despite facing tough defense from the Timberwolves, Durant found ways to score and keep the Suns within reach. His seven rebounds and four assists highlighted his all-around impact on the game.
Devin Booker’s Consistency
Devin Booker scored 22 points and added five assists, continuing his role as a key playmaker for the Suns. His ability to create his own shot and facilitate the offense was crucial, but the Timberwolves’ defense limited his impact in the later stages of the game.
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Key Takeaways
Minnesota Timberwolves
- Defensive Cohesion: The Timberwolves displayed strong defensive cohesion, effectively limiting the Suns’ star players and forcing turnovers. Their ability to maintain defensive pressure throughout the game was a decisive factor in their victory.
- Balanced Scoring: The Timberwolves’ balanced scoring attack, with multiple players contributing double-digit points, showcased their offensive depth and versatility.
Phoenix Suns
- Offensive Struggles: Despite the efforts of their star players, the Suns struggled to find consistent scoring outside of Durant and Booker. Addressing this issue will be crucial for their success in the playoffs.
- Defensive Adjustments: The Suns’ defense, while effective at times, was unable to contain the Timberwolves’ offensive surges. Improving their defensive schemes will be essential for the upcoming games.
Timberwolves vs Phoenix Suns Match Player Stats and Box Score:
Timberwolves Match Player Stats and Box Score:
| starters | MIN | FG | 3PT | FT | OREB | DREB | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PF | #ERROR! | PTS | |
| J. McDanielsPF | 34 | 6-12 | 1-4 | 5-5 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | -2 | 18 | |
| R. GobertC | 25 | 3-9 | 0-0 | 3-3 | 3 | 2 | 5 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 10 | 9 | |
| K. TownsC | 39 | 11-17 | 4-6 | 2-3 | 2 | 8 | 10 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 | 4 | 28 | |
| M. ConleyPG | 34 | 2-10 | 2-6 | 4-5 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 16 | 10 | |
| A. EdwardsSG | 41 | 13-23 | 7-13 | 7-10 | 4 | 5 | 9 | 6 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 7 | 40 | |
| bench | MIN | FG | 3PT | FT | OREB | DREB | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PF | #ERROR! | PTS | |
| K. AndersonSF | 17 | 2-5 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 3 | 4 | 7 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | -2 | 4 | |
| N. ReidC | 20 | 2-4 | 1-2 | 3-4 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 3 | 8 | |
| N. Alexander-WalkerSG | 31 | 2-9 | 0-5 | 1-1 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 3 | -6 | 5 | |
| J. MinottF | DNP-COACH’S DECISION | ||||||||||||||
| L. MillerF | DNP-COACH’S DECISION | ||||||||||||||
| T.J. WarrenSF | DNP-COACH’S DECISION | ||||||||||||||
| L. GarzaC | DNP-COACH’S DECISION | ||||||||||||||
| M. MorrisPG | DNP-COACH’S DECISION | ||||||||||||||
| J. McLaughlinPG | DNP-COACH’S DECISION | ||||||||||||||
| W. Moore Jr.G | DNP-COACH’S DECISION | ||||||||||||||
| team | 41-89 | 15-36 | 25-31 | 17 | 27 | 44 | 23 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 27 | 122 | |||
| 46.10% | 41.70% | 80.60% | |||||||||||||
Phoenix Suns Match Box Score:
| starters | MIN | FG | 3PT | FT | OREB | DREB | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PF | #ERROR! | PTS | |
| K. DurantPF | 46 | 12-17 | 2-3 | 7-9 | 1 | 8 | 9 | 5 | 0 | 4 | 1 | 2 | -7 | 33 | |
| R. O’NealePF | 37 | 2-7 | 2-6 | 0-0 | 3 | 3 | 6 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 | -1 | 6 | |
| J. NurkicC | 20 | 3-5 | 0-0 | 3-4 | 5 | 3 | 8 | 5 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 5 | -7 | 9 | |
| B. BealSG | 31 | 4-13 | 1-5 | 0-0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 6 | 6 | -12 | 9 | |
| D. BookerSG | 45 | 13-21 | 3-5 | 20-21 | 0 | 5 | 5 | 6 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 5 | 1 | 49 | |
| bench | MIN | FG | 3PT | FT | OREB | DREB | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | PF | #ERROR! | PTS | |
| J. OkogieSF | 14 | 2-3 | 0-1 | 0-2 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 4 | 3 | 4 | |
| N. LittleSF | 7 | 0-1 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | -6 | 0 | |
| E. GordonSG | 39 | 2-7 | 2-5 | 0-0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | -1 | 6 | |
| D. EubanksPF | DNP-COACH’S DECISION | ||||||||||||||
| T. YoungF | DNP-COACH’S DECISION | ||||||||||||||
| D. RoddyF | DNP-COACH’S DECISION | ||||||||||||||
| B. BolC | DNP-COACH’S DECISION | ||||||||||||||
| I. ThomasG | DNP-COACH’S DECISION | ||||||||||||||
| team | 38-74 | 10-26 | 30-36 | 10 | 23 | 33 | 20 | 6 | 7 | 11 | 26 | 116 | |||
| 51.40% | 38.50% | 83.30% | |||||||||||||
Conclusion
The Minnesota Timberwolves’ victory over the Phoenix Suns in their match on April 28, 2024, was a testament to their defensive resilience and balanced offensive attack. Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns led the way for the Timberwolves, while Kevin Durant and Devin Booker provided strong performances for the Suns. As the regular season draws to a close, both teams will look to build on their strengths and address their weaknesses in preparation for the playoffs.
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