Star of the game
Both The Timberwolves and the Trail Blazers were playing shorthanded, but thanks to the bench’s help, Minnesota won their fifth straight game. Without Anthony Edwards or D’Angelo Russell, Karl-Anthony Towns had no choice but to put the team on his shoulders. With 27 points, 13 rebounds and two blocks, Towns was the clear star of the game. Hopefully his supporting starters can get enough rest before the playoffs start, and then this team can really get going.
Biggest Concern
Missing both Anthony Edwards and D’Angelo Russell, injuries are clearly a problem. Unfortunately, Jaylen Nowell was briefly added to that list. After a nasal contusion from taking an elbow to the face, the back-up guard missed the rest of the game. The good news is that early reports indicate this injury is minor, and Nowell could have returned against Portland. Otherwise, the Timberwolves could be looking pretty thin in terms of guard depth. 
Number of the Night
5. Multiple Wolves bench players had great nights, including some who were at the very end of the rotation. Josh Okogie scored nine points, Jake Layman had seven rebounds, and Naz Reid put in 18 points with 11 rebounds. The honor goes to Malik Beasley, though, who seems to have found his three point shot again. Beasley shot 6/16 from the field (hitting five 3-pointers) for a total of 19 points. On a night where Minnesota was lacking guard depth, Beasley stepped up in a big way. 
Next Game
The Timberwolves will play the Thunder tonight at 7:00 CST.
Minnesota Wins Fifth Straight Minnesota Wins Fifth Straight Minnesota Wins Fifth Straight Minnesota Wins Fifth Straight
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