The Minnesota Timberwolves lost a heartbreaker to the Phoenix Suns, falling 114-113 after leading by eight points in the final minute of play on November 3, 2023. Collin Gillespie’s isolation basket with just six seconds remaining put Phoenix ahead, while Julius Randle’s last-second three-point attempt failed, sealing the Timberwolves’ defeat.
The Timberwolves struggled in crucial moments late in the game, committing three turnovers within a span of 27 seconds. Star guard Anthony Edwards missed two free throws that could have shifted the momentum back in Minnesota’s favor, even after Suns’ leading scorer Devin Booker fouled out with more than two minutes left. Head Coach Chris Finch criticized his team’s performance, stating, “We lost our minds. Poor execution. Turnovers, obviously, and just didn’t stay locked in for the last 90 seconds.”
Timberwolves’ Challenges Against Top Teams
Minnesota now faces the prospect of needing a win against the Oklahoma City Thunder on November 8, 2023, to advance to the NBA Cup knockout stage for the first time. The Timberwolves have struggled this season, now standing at 0-6 against teams with winning records. Last season, they posted an impressive 8-0 record against Denver and Phoenix but have now lost all three matchups against these teams this year.
Despite the Suns being short-handed, missing two rotational players, Minnesota could not capitalize. Phoenix’s challenges included Booker’s foul trouble and Dillon Brooks also fouling out in the game’s final moments. Yet, the Timberwolves failed to show the composure needed to seal the victory.
Minnesota started the game poorly, losing the first quarter by eight points and trailing by 13 at half-time. The team’s inability to match Phoenix’s execution and physicality has been a recurring theme this season. While they have performed well against weaker opponents, the Timberwolves have yet to find their rhythm against stronger teams.
Standout Performances Amid Disappointment
Edwards had a notable performance, scoring 41 points, including a 19-point third quarter where he made seven of his first nine shots. His efforts included some successful three-pointers, but he could not redeem his late-game mistakes. Edwards expressed regret over his turnovers and missed free throws, which significantly impacted the game’s outcome.
Defensively, Jaden McDaniels continued to challenge Booker, limiting him to just four successful shots out of 18 attempts before he fouled out. Although Booker managed to record ten assists, he also committed nine turnovers, matching his career high. McDaniels and the Timberwolves’ defense have consistently troubled Booker since their playoff matchup in 2024.
If Minnesota had secured the win, Rudy Gobert would have been lauded as an unsung hero for his relentless effort on the boards. He contributed significantly in the final quarter, gathering seven points and five rebounds, including the pivotal foul that led to Booker’s exit from the game.
The Timberwolves will need to regroup quickly and address their late-game execution issues if they hope to turn their season around. The stakes are high as they prepare for their upcoming clash with the Thunder.
