Timberwolves edge Clippers to end losing streak

In Minneapolis on November 29, 2024, the Minnesota Timberwolves faced the Los Angeles Clippers in a tightly contested NBA Cup game. The Timberwolves, snapping a four-game losing streak, managed to secure a narrow 93-92 victory. Anthony Edwards played a crucial role, contributing 21 points despite struggling with his shooting, ending the game with a 7-for-21 field goal record. Supporting him in the effort were Nickeil Alexander-Walker with 12 points and 10 rebounds, and Julius Randle who also recorded a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds. The game was marked by challenges for the Timberwolves, who committed an alarming 22 turnovers and were unable to maintain a double-digit lead at one point. Their defense lacked intensity and their offensive game experienced significant lapses, reminiscent of struggles they faced since their conference finals appearance last season. The Clippers, who were operating without their star player Kawhi Leonard due to a knee injury and Norman Powell who has been sidelined for six games because of a hamstring injury, nevertheless put up a commendable fight. James Harden and Ivica Zubac were key players for Los Angeles, with Harden finishing with 20 points and 11 assists and Zubac contributing 16 points and 13 rebounds. The game took a critical turn with just over four minutes left when the Clippers took a 90-87 lead following a four-point play by James Harden. However, in the final minutes, the Clippers' offense sputtered, managing only a layup from Zubac. Edwards managed a pivotal pull-up three-pointer that put the Timberwolves back in front at 92-90 with 2:24 remaining, and this proved to be the decisive moment in the match. The Timberwolves ultimately held on for the slim victory despite their earlier struggles. Looking ahead, the Timberwolves will face the Los Angeles Lakers at home on Monday while the Clippers will host Denver on Sunday. Both teams find themselves with challenging games on the horizon as they aim to improve their standings in the overall tournament despite their current group record, which places the Timberwolves at 2-2 and the Clippers at 1-2.