Star of the Game
Minnesota drops the ball and slips in their second back to back game against Sacramento. It can be tough to play the same team two nights in a row, especially when all their new players show up. Even so, Minnesota’s big three all played very well, combining for 76 points. Of the three, D’Angelo Russell played especially well, scoring 29 points (shooting 3/4 from beyond the arc) with four rebounds and 10 assists. Russell has been struggling with injuries, but when he plays like this, it is difficult for the Wolves to lose. This game was an exception, though.
Biggest Concern
How the mighty have fallen. Malik Beasley returned to his slumping self, scoring only six points and shooting 1/7 from three. For the last several games, Beasley’s shooting saved the team, and he was hitting almost 60% of his shots. Against the Kings, that number fell to 22%. With streaky shooting like this, it’s tough for Minnesota to form a concrete game plan.
Number of the Night
8. While Anthony Edwards gets the honorable mention against the King, the true number of the night goes to Jarred Vanderbilt. While he may not be a knockdown shooter (yet), Vanderbilt provides energy on both ends of the floor. Against the Kings, the young power forward had eight points, 11 rebounds, a steal and a block. Vanderbilt has been the surprise of the season for the Wolves, who lacked defense and rebounding coming into the season. Vanderbilt provides both, and remains the glue guy the Timberwolves need.
Next Game
The Timberwolves will play the Bulls next on Friday at 7:00 CST.
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