MINNEAPOLIS – In a commanding performance, Naz Reid led the Minnesota Timberwolves to a 114-93 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Monday night, contributing 25 points and nine rebounds.
Anthony Edwards also made a notable impact with 21 points, while Donte DiVincenzo scored 14 and Julius Randle added 13 to the scoreboard. The Timberwolves showcased their shooting skills by sinking 18 of 38 three-pointers (47.4%), in striking contrast to the Hornets’ struggles beyond the arc, where they managed only 10 out of 42 attempts (23.8%). Rudy Gobert contributed to the game with eight points, all coming from powerful dunks, along with eight rebounds.
For the Hornets, LaMelo Ball was the leading scorer with 19 points. Miles Bridges, Brandon Miller, and Tre Mann each chipped in with 10 points for the squad.
Key observations from the game reveal that after an initial win in their season opener, the Hornets have stumbled, losing five of their last six games. The team played without starting center Mark Williams due to a strained left foot tendon and backup center Nick Richards, who is sidelined with a sore shoulder.
On the Timberwolves’ side, they boasted a significant lead of 28 points early in the fourth quarter and took the opportunity to let first-round draft picks Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon Jr. make their debuts at the Target Center. Dillingham captivated the fans with a couple of impressive one-handed runners, although Shannon did not manage to score in his limited playing time.
A pivotal moment in the game occurred at the start of the second quarter; with the score tied at 24, Nickeil Alexander-Walker and DiVincenzo quickly sank three-pointers, followed by two dunks from Gobert, leading to a decisive 13-2 run that put the Timberwolves ahead for good.
In terms of shooting statistics, Reid (5 for 7), Edwards (4 for 6), Mike Conley (3 for 5), and DiVincenzo (3 for 6) collectively made 15 three-pointers, showcasing the team’s offensive firepower.
Looking ahead, the Hornets will return to their home court to take on the Pistons on Wednesday, while the Timberwolves are set to visit Chicago to face the Bulls on Thursday.