MINNEAPOLIS — In an impressive performance, Kyle Kuzma recorded a season-high 31 points, leading the Washington Wizards to a narrow victory over the depleted Minnesota Timberwolves, with a final score of 105-103. This win marked the end of a challenging 16-game losing streak for the Wizards.
Jordan Poole contributed 19 points, while Bilal Coulibaly added 14 and Jonas Valanciunas secured a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds. The Wizards managed to claim their seventh win of the season, demonstrating resilience in their gameplay.
Washington established a seven-point lead with less than four minutes remaining. However, they found themselves in a precarious position with 11 seconds on the clock, having turned the ball over while leading by two. Minnesota’s Nickeil Alexander-Walker had a chance to tie the game with a three-point attempt that fell short. Corey Kispert took control of the rebound, allowing the Wizards to break a 21-game losing streak on the road.
For the Timberwolves, Jaden McDaniels stood out with a personal best of 23 points and 12 rebounds, marking his first career game with at least 20 points and 10 rebounds. Rudy Gobert also had a notable performance, recording 16 points and 16 rebounds; unfortunately, the Timberwolves saw their five-game winning streak come to an end.
The Timberwolves faced challenges due to the absence of two key starters: All-Star Anthony Edwards was sidelined with an illness, while Julius Randle missed the game due to a groin injury, which coach Chris Finch indicated would keep him out of action for a while. Additionally, Naz Reid, who was making his first start this season, had to exit early in the third quarter with a right finger sprain.
In terms of game highlights, Malcom Brogdon made a comeback for the Wizards after missing 14 games due to a right foot injury. He contributed three points, along with four assists and five rebounds in 21 minutes of play. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves continued to excel in team play, showcasing remarkable ball movement with a total of 29 assists throughout the game.
A pivotal moment occurred when the Wizards were trailing 93-91; Valanciunas spurred a turnaround by scoring five consecutive points, helping Washington embark on a 9-0 run that solidified their lead at 99-93 with just under four minutes to play.
In an interesting stat, Kuzma managed to score 16 consecutive points for the Wizards during the second quarter without taking a single free throw.
Looking ahead, both the Wizards and Timberwolves are scheduled to play again on Monday night; Washington will face off against the Charlotte Hornets, while Minnesota will host the Sacramento Kings.
