Timberwolves Take (3-1) Lead After Defeating The Lakers 116-113

Timberwolves Take (3-1) Lead After Defeating The Lakers 116-113

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by | Apr 27, 2025 | Featured, Minnesota Timberwolves, NBA

The Timberwolves were coming into Game 4 feeling really good about the Game 3 win, but not content. The Timberwolves knew that they got a legacy game from LeBron James in Game 3 and wanted to make sure they could avoid that at all costs. The Lakers felt like they could have won Game 3 and wanted to come in here on Sunday to make a statement in the series.

 

The Timberwolves were off to a sluggish start in this game as a whole, but Julius Randle got the party started. Randle has been super aggressive in this series as he’s been able to put pressure on the Lakers’ defenders inside/out. Julius Randle has found his rhythm in this series, and he’s made the right play to get his teammates involved constantly. Randle has been able to get to his spots with ease as he’s taking the challenge of being defended by LeBron James. It seemed like every time the Lakers would go on a run, Randle was able to do something that worked in the Timberwolves’ favor. Randle was the heart and soul of this team tonight, finishing with 25 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists. Jaden McDaniels had a quiet night from a scoring aspect, but the defensive job that he’s been able to do with Luka Doncic has been key to the Timberwolves’ success. Luka was able to get off tonight for 38 points, but he had to earn the majority of them against the Timberwolves’ defense. The Wolves had to defend 28 shots from Luka, and he only made 13 of them tonight.

 

The Lakers didn’t sub any players in the 2nd half, which is unheard of, but when the season’s on the line, you have to do what you have to do. LeBron James played 46 minutes tonight, which was impressive in itself as he was able to score 27 points, 12 rebounds, and 8 assists. The Timberwolves were giving LeBron some different looks on the defensive side as Anthony Edwards stepped up to the plate to defend him. Anthony Edwards was trying to rough up LeBron and make everything tough on him, especially in those types of minutes played for the King. The Timberwolves almost shot themselves in the foot on some missed opportunities defensively because of doubling Luka/LeBron. When they would double-team one of them, it left Rui or Austin open, and tonight they were knocking down their jumpers at a high clip. Reaves/Hachimura shot a combined 10/22 from the field, and if they even missed a couple of those, the score would be significantly different. The Wolves were able to survive that shooting, but it also came down to the multiple stops and effort from Donte DiVincenzo, who was able to do everything for Minnesota.

 

The 4th quarter was all about Anthony Edwards and his shot-making ability tonight. Edwards was exhausted out there with his hands on his knees, but he was still out there making the right play. Edwards, when he put his mind to it to attack the paint, was ruthless, as Los Angeles didn’t want any parts of that. Anthony Edwards had the 3-pointer dropping, and he was able to create for himself/teammates at an elite clip. Edwards has been playing good, but tonight he was on another level as he’s figuring out how to read the defense and know when to attack or get others involved. The growth that Ant-Man has been showing in this series has been unreal, and we’re witnessing the passing of the torch because he’s trying to take it. Anthony Edwards finished tonight with 43 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists as he has Minnesota in the driver’s seat in this series. One player that can’t be forgotten in this game was Naz Reid, as he was able to come in the 4th and make 2 critical shots that put the Wolves back up. The confidence that Naz Reid has been playing with is special, as he has been a mismatch nightmare for the Lakers all series long. Naz Reid has been able to adapt to his situation with minutes and opportunity because it has been working big time.

 

The Timberwolves now lead 3-1 s the series heads back to LA on Wednesday. The Timberwolves will look to finish them off in LA, but they can’t let up off the gas as LeBron has come back down 3-1 before in his career. The Timberwolves need to make sure they play aggressively and lock in on both ends of the floor if they want to advance.

 

Apr 27, 2025 No Comments
Minnesota Timberwolves Defeat The LA Lakers In Game 3 (116-104) To Take The 2-1 Lead

Minnesota Timberwolves Defeat The LA Lakers In Game 3 (116-104) To Take The 2-1 Lead

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by | Apr 26, 2025 | Featured, Minnesota Timberwolves, NBA

The Minnesota Timberwolves came into Game 3 knowing they would be coming home with a (1-1) split in the series. The Timberwolves had a chance in Game 2, but the Lakers were aggressive. In Game 3, the Timberwolves would need to make the proper adjustments as they don’t want to go down 2-1. An NBA playoff series is all about making adjustments and making sure that you play with some consistency. Tonight in Target Center, the Timberwolves need to make a statement, and they did exactly that as this was a true test to showcase what they’re made of as a unit.

The Minnesota Timberwolves came out firing on all cylinders tonight in Game 3, and it didn’t come from Anthony Edwards right away for them. It was Jaden McDaniels who came out shining on both ends of the court as he was the best Minnesota player tonight. Jaden McDaniels had to defend Luka Doncic all night long, and he was the constant flow of offense for a Timberwolves team that needed every single point from him. Jaden has been able to continue to show that he can be one of the best two-way players, and in these playoffs, he’s been showing that. Jaden was able to get to the lane, and he was able to make the most of every shot that the Lakers gave him. Jaden McDaniels finished with 30 points, 5 rebounds, and 1 assist. Jaden was able to put pressure on Luka Doncic all night when he put his head down and locked in on the offensive end. When Jaden McDaniels plays like this, the Minnesota Timberwolves play unstoppable. The way that Jaden McDaniels plays rubs off on the team, and that’s something that means everything to this team. Another player who came to play tonight was Julius Randle, as he finished with 22 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists. Randle has been giving it his all when it comes to this series, and I’m sure he’s playing with a little more added fuel to his competitive fire. Randle was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers, and he was teammates with Kobe Bryant, so beating the Lakers would be a full-circle moment.

Randle has been the MVP of this series so far with his play, and he’s been making LeBron James work because of his physicality. This is the most comfortable I’ve seen Julius in the Chris Finch offense, and we have time to see how special he can be when everyone’s on the same page. Anthony Edwards finished with 29 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 assists. Anthony Edwards has been letting the game come to him, and it’s showing against that Lakers defense.

When Ant-Man trust’s his teammates like he’s doing with Randle/McDaniels, great things have happened, but it’s going to continue as long as Edwards plays with a high IQ. The Timberwolves were able to slow down Luka, who was quiet with 17 points, 7 rebounds, and 8 assists, but he was dealing with a stomach bump.

LeBron James put the Lakers on his back in this game as Luka was dealing with a stomach bug. This was vintage LeBron as he finished with 38 points but look for him to continue to be aggressive if LA wants to go back with the 2-2 split.

Apr 26, 2025 No Comments
Anthony Edwards Record & Averages In Every Adidas Sneaker Worn On The Court In His Postseason Career

Anthony Edwards Record & Averages In Every Adidas Sneaker Worn On The Court In His Postseason Career

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by | Apr 18, 2025 | Featured, Minnesota Timberwolves, NBA, Sneakers


Adidas Crazy BYW 2.0 Record – (2-4)

 

In Anthony Edwards’ playoff debut against the Memphis Grizzlies, he wore the Adidas Crazy BYW 2.0 sneaker every night. During the series, Edwards impressed with an average of (25.2 points per game, 4.2 rebounds, and 3 assists).

 

This performance signaled the emergence of a rising star from Atlanta, unafraid to face the challenges of the NBA playoffs. Although the Crazy BYW 2.0 colorways he wore during the series were not a Player Exclusive (PE), he would debut some new PEs in 2023, reflecting his growing influence.

 

Edwards made a strong statement with 36 points in his playoff debut, demonstrating his abilities and letting the Grizzlies know that the series would be fiercely contested.

 

 

 

Adidas BYW Select Record – (1-4)

 

In the 2023 NBA season, Adidas made a notable comeback with the Adidas BYW Select, capturing significant attention. A key highlight was multiple NBA players sporting different Player Editions (PEs) of this silhouette, prominently featuring Anthony Edwards.

During the 2023 NBA playoffs, in the Round 1 matchup against the Denver Nuggets, Edwards showcased some crazy colorways of the BYW Select, including exclusive PEs. Among these, the neon green PE stood out, accentuated by a hint of navy blue, embodying a Minnesota Timberwolves vibe.

Throughout the series against the Nuggets, Anthony Edwards delivered an impressive performance, averaging 31.6 points per game, along with 5 rebounds and 5.2 assists. Despite the Minnesota Timberwolves not advancing past the series, Edwards made a bold statement with his performance and style, letting it be known to the Denver Nuggets he will be back.

 

 

 

 

 

Adidas AE 1 “Georgia Red Clay” Record – (3-3)

 

Anthony Edwards’ performance in the playoffs while wearing the Adidas AE 1 “Georgia Red Clay” was indeed remarkable. In the 2024 playoffs, he averaged impressive stats with 31.6 points per game, 7 assists, and 6 rebounds over six games, showcasing his incredible talent and dominating while wearing these sneakers.

 

The Adidas AE 1 “Georgia Red Clay” has become iconic, not just for its style but for the memorable moments Edwards created while wearing them.

 

His playoff career-high of 44 points against Denver is a testament to his skill and he showed the world that Minnesota was coming in the WCF.

 

Additionally, his spectacular dunks on John Collins and Daniel Gafford will undoubtedly be remembered by basketball fans and the Georgia Red Clay were on the big stage.These sneakers have become synonymous with the Timberwolves’ playoff journey and Anthony Edwards’ standout performances. The “Georgia Red Clay” edition of the AE 1’s has certainly left a lasting mark on the 2024 playoffs and will be remembered by fans for years to come.

 

 

 

 

 

Adidas AE 1 “Timberwolves PE” Record – (0-1)

 

While rocking the Adidas AE 1 “Timberwolves” PE Anthony Edwards dropped (19 PPG, 5 AST, 6 REB) in the 1 game.

 

The Adidas AE 1″Timberwolves” PE was the first colorway that Ant Man debuted in Timberwolves colors that were exclusively for him and the fans went crazy for them.

 

This could also be a nod to Sprite as well who endorses Ant Man but either way they look amazing. Would love to see these hit the court in the Playoffs this year but Ant Man has been rocking the Lows all season long.

The lime green and royal blue just compliment each other perfectly as this is one of the PE’s that we all wish hit retail.

 

 

 

Adidas AE 1 “3Stripes Select Basketball” PE Record – (0-1)

 

This by far is the Sneaker of the Year in the Adidas AE 1 Collection. The tough part about it is the fact they aren’t avaivalble to the public until now as the AE 1 “3Stripes Select Basketball” Low is now available.

The AE 1 “3Stripes Select Basketball” was given to Ant Man’s AAU Team last season but will grace the public now.  Edwards rocked this holy grail in Game 5 against the Dallas Mavericks in the WCF and the internet went CRAZY in the sneakers 2nd appearance on the year.

While rocking the Adidas AE 1 “3Stripes Select Basketball” Anthony Edwards dropped (28 PPG, 6 AST, 9 REB) in the 1 game that every Minnesota Timberwolves fan wants to forgot about that ended their season. Ant Man has been playing in the Low version of these during the regular season and it’s possible he could wear them in Game 1 against LA today.

 

 

 

Adidas AE 1 Low “Mural” Record – (4-0)

 

Anthony Edwards truly made a statement during the NBA Playoffs while rocking the Adidas AE 1 Low “Mural.”

His performance was nothing short of spectacular, averaging 31 points per game, 6.2 assists, and 8 rebounds across the 4 victories. The “Mural” colorway, with its distinctive pink, became emblematic of his dominant play against the Phoenix Suns.

These sneakers were a part of every highlight, symbolizing the Timberwolves’ impressive sweep. Fans in Minnesota are likely hoping that Ant Man will don these good luck charms again in the 2024 NBA Playoffs, bringing the same level of excitement and success.

 

 

 

Adidas AE 1 Low “Ascent” Record – (2-0)

Anthony Edwards had an impressive performance in the postseason, leading his team to a 2-0 record while rocking the Adidas AE 1 Low “Ascent.”

In these games, Edwards averaged 21.5 points, 5.5 assists, and 6 rebounds. The “Ascent” colorway was the second in a series of Adidas AE 1 Lows that Edwards & Adidas  introduced during the NBA Playoffs, quickly becoming a fan favorite, especially after the murals were revealed.

The popularity of these AE 1’s has led to calls for their return to the court, as fans were particularly fond of this release alongside the mids. It will be interesting to see if Ant Man brings these back out or if he stays with his current rotation.

 

 

 

 

Adidas AE 1 Low “Slime” Record – (0-2)

 

The Adidas AE 1 Low “Slime” certainly made an impression with its striking design and association with Anthony Edwards.

Despite the lack of a wins while wearing them during the playoffs, Edwards put up solid stats, averaging 20 points per game, 7.5 assists, and 8 rebounds across the two games.

The vibrant “Slime” colorway became a fan favorite, capturing attention both on and off the court.

It’s understandable why you’d want to see Edwards don these eye-catching sneakers again in future playoffs, potentially bringing the Timberwolves more success while rocking this signature style that pops from anywhere in the arena.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo Credit: (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images),  (Photo by C. Morgan Engel/Getty Images), (Photo by Jordan Johnson/NBAE via Getty Images), Minnesota Timberwolves, NBAKicks,(Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images) AP Photo Abbie Parr, (AP Photo/Matt Krohn), (AP Photo/Paul Sancya), Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett, (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports, Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports (Justin Ford/Getty Images) (Justin Ford via Getty Images)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Apr 18, 2025 No Comments
The Timberwolves Bounce Back To Defeat New Orleans (134-93) To End Homestand

The Timberwolves Bounce Back To Defeat New Orleans (134-93) To End Homestand

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by | Mar 21, 2025 | Featured, Minnesota Timberwolves, NBA

The Timberwolves entered their rematch against the Pelicans brimming with intensity, a palpable fire ignited by their stinging defeat just two nights prior. The crucial difference this time? The absence of Zion Williamson from the Pelicans’ lineup. This absence dramatically altered the dynamic of the game, creating an opportunity for Minnesota to assert its dominance.

Two players, in particular, seized the initiative and set the tone for a decisive Timberwolves victory: Rudy Gobert and the surprisingly impactful Julius Randle. With the Pelicans severely lacking an interior presence beyond the efforts of Jonas Valanciunas (presumably “Missi” in the original text is a typo), Gobert and the frontcourt duo of Randle and Naz Reid ruthlessly exploited the mismatch. Gobert, visibly motivated by his pronouncements regarding the team’s need for improved rebounding following Wednesday’s loss, delivered a dominant performance, showcasing his interior prowess with a commanding double-double: 15 points and 11 rebounds. His aggressive play was a clear statement of intent.

Randle, meanwhile, continued his electrifying post-All-Star break form, thriving in his expanded role. He capitalized on the defensive shortcomings of Kelly Olynyk, consistently exploiting the size and skill differential. Randle’s all-around contribution was remarkable, falling just shy of a triple-double with a dazzling stat line of 20 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists. His performance highlighted the Wolves’ depth and the effectiveness of their adjusted offensive strategy.

The supporting cast played their parts admirably. Anthony Edwards, Donte DiVincenzo, and Naz Reid all delivered impressive performances, combining for a collective 45 points. This game served as a testament to the Timberwolves’ remarkable depth and their ability to consistently contribute across the roster. Their superior rebounding and assist numbers underscored their overall team dominance. The Timberwolves’ victory wasn’t just about individual brilliance; it was a cohesive team effort. Their ability to overcome the challenge posed by the Pelicans, avoiding the trap of playing down to their opponent’s level, showcased the true potential of this elite team. With six players reaching double figures, the Timberwolves demonstrated the potent balance that makes them a serious contender in the Western Conference.

On the Pelicans side, CJ McCollum emerged as the lone bright spot, displaying his professionalism and unwavering commitment despite the lopsided outcome. In his 28 minutes of action, he poured in 15 points, contributing 2 rebounds and 3 assists. His performance, though ultimately insufficient to prevent the defeat, represented a testament to his character and dedication. The loss drops the Pelicans to a disappointing 19-52 on the season, highlighting the significant gulf in talent and consistency between the two teams on this particular night. The game served as a stark reminder of the Timberwolves’ potential and the Pelicans’ ongoing struggles.

 

 

 

Photo Credit: (Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images)

Mar 21, 2025 No Comments
Elite Eight Predictions

Elite Eight Predictions

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by | Mar 20, 2025 | Featured

West Region: #2 St. John’s vs. #5 Memphis

St. John’s potential Elite Eight run hinges on their offensive efficiency. If they can achieve an adjusted offensive efficiency rating consistently above 115, as measured by metrics like KenPom, they will be formidable. This would require their star guard, RJ Luis, with a high assist-to-turnover ratio (above 2.5), to consistently penetrate defenses and create scoring opportunities. Their coach, known for a strategic offensive approach, must implement a system that maximizes Luis’s strengths while minimizing turnovers. Memphis, conversely, will rely on their defensive prowess. A strong adjusted defensive efficiency rating below 95 is essential. If their projected defensive anchor, a player with a high block and steal rate (combined >5%), can disrupt opponents’ offensive flow, they can create chaos. However, their offensive consistency may be a concern. If their offensive rebounding percentage is low, and their three-point shooting percentage is below 33%, they will struggle against a well-balanced St. John’s team. St. John’s projected offensive balance, with a consistent three-point threat and a strong interior presence, gives them the edge.

Midwest Region: #1 Houston vs. #2 Tennessee

Houston’s defensive dominance is their hallmark. An adjusted defensive efficiency rating consistently below 90 is critical. Their projected defensive anchor, a player with a high defensive rebounding percentage, must anchor their defense. Their coach’s defensive schemes, known for their suffocating pressure and disciplined rotations, will be vital. Offensively, they need to maintain an adjusted offensive efficiency rating above 120, relying on efficient scoring from their projected star guard, a player with a high assist rate. Tennessee’s path depends on their rebounding and physical play. Their offensive rebounding percentage must be among the nation’s best, and their defensive rebounding percentage must be equally strong. Their projected interior presence, a player with a high rebounding rate and a strong post-scoring game, must dominate the paint. However, if their turnover rate is above 18%, and their three-point shooting percentage is below 35% they will struggle against Houston’s elite defense. Houston’s statistically superior defense and offensive efficiency, combined with their coach’s proven tournament success, makes them the favorite.

East Region: #1 Duke vs. #2 Alabama

Duke’s success hinges on Cooper Flagg’s rapid development and their coach’s ability to integrate him into a cohesive unit. Flagg, a projected star freshman with a high usage rate, must live up to expectations. Their coach’s ability to create a balanced offensive attack, utilizing Flagg’s talent while maintaining defensive discipline, will be crucial. Alabama’s offensive firepower is undeniable. They need an adjusted offensive efficiency rating consistently above 120, relying on their projected star guard’s ability to create scoring opportunities and knock down three-pointers. Their three-point percentage must be above 38%, and their transition offense must be efficient. However, their defensive consistency is a potential weakness. If their adjusted defensive efficiency rating is above 100, and their defensive rebounding percentage is low, they will struggle against Duke’s disciplined offense. Duke’s historical tournament success, and defensive discipline, gives them the slight edge.

South Region: #5 Michigan vs. #2 Michigan State

This in-state rivalry matchup adds a layer of intensity. Michigan’s success depends on their guard play and offensive versatility. Their projected star guard, a player with a high assist rate and a low turnover rate, must control the tempo and create scoring opportunities. Their three-point percentage must be above 37% and their turnover percentage must be below 15%. Michigan State will rely on their experience and defensive discipline. Their projected defensive anchor, a player with a high defensive rebounding rate, must anchor their defense. Coach Tom Izzo’s ability to implement a disciplined defensive scheme and control the tempo will be crucial. However, if their offensive rebounding percentage is low, and their offensive efficiency is inconsistent, they will struggle against Michigan. Michigan’s projected offensive versatility and guard play, combined with their coach’s ability to exploit mismatches, gives them the edge in this rivalry matchup.

 

Mar 20, 2025 No Comments
NCAA March Madness Upsets To Watch Out For

NCAA March Madness Upsets To Watch Out For

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by | Mar 20, 2025 | Featured

To truly dissect the potential for upsets in the 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, we must delve beyond surface-level observations and consider the nuanced dynamics that define March Madness.

High Point, as a potential Cinderella story, will likely need to rely on an explosive offensive performance. Their path to victory hinges on their ability to generate high-percentage scoring opportunities, particularly from beyond the arc. A truly exceptional shooting night, coupled with limiting turnovers that often plague high-tempo offenses, is paramount. They must also identify and exploit defensive mismatches, recognizing that a higher-seeded opponent may underestimate their scoring prowess. High Point’s success will ultimately depend on whether their offensive firepower can overwhelm a more defensively sound team.

VCU’s “Havoc” defense, a trademark of their program, remains their most potent weapon. To engineer an upset, they must amplify their defensive intensity, forcing a high volume of turnovers and disrupting the rhythm of their opponent’s offense. This requires a relentless, full-court pressure that can rattle even the most composed ball-handlers. VCU’s ability to convert those turnovers into quick, efficient scoring opportunities is equally critical. They must avoid allowing their defensive aggression to translate into excessive fouls, which could negate their advantage. The key is to create a sense of chaos that throws their opponent off their game, thus creating easy scoring opportunities.

Yale, representing the Ivy League, must leverage their disciplined, methodical approach to upset a higher-seeded team. Their strategy should revolve around controlling the tempo of the game, minimizing mistakes, and capitalizing on their opponent’s errors. This requires precise execution of their offensive sets, patient ball movement, and a commitment to strong defensive positioning. Yale’s ability to limit the athletic advantages of their opponent through intelligent play and strategic fouling is essential. They must excel in rebounding and free-throw shooting, two crucial aspects of tournament basketball. Furthermore, a well-executed game plan, one that exploits any tactical weaknesses of the opposing team, will be very important.

Drake’s path to an upset hinges on the experience and cohesion of their team. A strong, experienced core of players, particularly in the guard positions, is essential. They must possess the ability to execute under pressure, make smart decisions in crucial moments, and demonstrate a high level of basketball IQ. Drake’s defensive approach must be disciplined and focused, limiting their opponent’s scoring opportunities and forcing them into contested shots. Their coach’s ability to devise and implement effective game plans, particularly in terms of matchup adjustments, will be a significant factor. A true leader on the court, and a coach that can make in game adjustments will be vital.

New Mexico, playing in the highly competitive Mountain West Conference, could be very well prepared for the tournament. Their success depends on their ability to translate their conference experience into tournament victories. They must maintain a high level of intensity and physicality, mirroring the style of play they encounter in their conference. Their ability to defend against high-powered offenses, and maintain their own offensive efficiency against strong defensive teams, will be crucial. New Mexico’s success will also rely on their ability to handle the pressure of the tournament environment, and maintain their composure in close games. They must also have a very strong bench that can provide quality minutes.

Mar 20, 2025 No Comments