Star of the Game
Minnesota slips by Memphis to win their first game after the All-Star break. The team needed some rest and recovery time, and they came out strong to win 119-114. Leading the way was D’Angelo Russell with 37 points and nine assists. Though he only shot 3/8 from deep, Russell was the catalyst to the Timberwolves victory. Karl-Anthony Towns had a strong game too, playing with renewed confidence after winning the 3-point contest. Towns had 22 points, 11 rebounds, and three blocks.
Biggest Concern
Prior to the All-Star Break, Anthony Edwards had been in a bit of a slump. The sophomore guard had been dealing with a few minor injuries (though he claimed to be fine) and his shooting had fallen off a cliff. Against the Grizzlies, Edwards scored 5 points, going 1/11 from the field. While he did have seven assists, that is not really enough to salvage this terrible game. What remains to be seen is whether Edwards will have a post All-Star boom like he did last season, but so far he is off to a bad start.
Number of the Night
8. Most of the supporting parts of the team played well against Memphis. Beasley scored 17, McDaniels scored seven with a block, Naz Reid had three blocks, but the honor has to go to Jarred Vanderbilt. Vanderbilt has been the spark plug that the Wolves have needed this year, bringing energy to the defensive end and on the glass. While Vanderbilt only scored 7 points, he pulled in 12 boards and had two steals. Prior to the All-Star Break, Vanderbilt had been looking a little tired. After getting some rest, he may play a big role in the Timberwolves securing the sixth seed and avoiding the play-in.
Next Game
The Timberwolves will face the 76ers tonight at 7:00 CST.
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