The Minnesota Timberwolves overcame an early injury setback to superstar Anthony Edwards to secure a 114-110 victory against the Indiana Pacers on Sunday. This match marked the Wolves’ tenth consecutive home opener win since 2016, highlighting their consistent performance at the Target Center. Edwards, who had been averaging 36 points per game in the season’s first two games, left the court after scoring just five points due to right hamstring tightness.
Game Highlights
Despite the loss of their leading scorer, the Timberwolves exhibited resilience. Julius Randle emerged as the standout player, contributing significantly with 31 points, 6 assists, and 4 rebounds. Other key performances included:
- Donte DiVincenzo: 17 points
- Rudy Gobert: 14 points and 19 rebounds
- Naz Reid: 16 points and 10 rebounds
For the Pacers, Pascal Siakam led the effort with an impressive 33 points, alongside 10 rebounds and 8 assists. Despite their tenacity, the Pacers could not clinch the win.
Impact of Anthony Edwards’ Injury
Edwards’ injury poses a significant concern for the Timberwolves, particularly with their upcoming match against the Denver Nuggets. His ability to bounce back will be closely monitored. With Edwards sidelined, Randle stepped up effectively, demonstrating his experience as a former All-NBA player and three-time All-Star. His early performance included making five consecutive shots, emphasizing his status as a vital scoring option for the Timberwolves.
Reid’s Redemption
Naz Reid also had a noteworthy performance, bouncing back after a slow start to the season. He scored 16 points and secured 10 rebounds, playing a crucial role in maintaining the lead during the fourth quarter. His contributions included a significant three-pointer that helped keep the Pacers at bay.
Stunning Game Presentation
The Timberwolves showcased a revamped game experience, featuring their nostalgic black throwback uniforms with green tree trim. This season marks their return of these fan-favorite jerseys from the Kevin Garnett era. Additionally, a new throwback court and stage-style lighting enhanced the atmosphere at the Target Center, reminiscent of iconic NBA arenas like Madison Square Garden and Crypto.com Arena.
The Wolves’ next game is against the Denver Nuggets on Monday at 8:30 p.m. CT, to be aired on Peacock. Fans will hope to see a quick recovery from Edwards and continued strong performances from Randle and Reid as the team strives to improve its season record.
