MINNEAPOLIS — In an impressive comeback, Jaden McDaniels recorded a standout performance with 30 points, 10 rebounds, and four assists, leading the Minnesota Timberwolves to a 114-98 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Saturday night. The Timberwolves faced a significant challenge, entering the game without their star guard Anthony Edwards, who missed his second game of the season due to hip soreness. In addition, key players Mike Conley, Julius Randle, and Donte DiVincenzo were also sidelined due to injuries.
Naz Reid proved instrumental in the win, scoring 11 of his total 23 points during the crucial fourth quarter. His three timely three-pointers played a significant role in propelling Minnesota to their third consecutive victory in what was a special night for Reid, as fans celebrated by receiving his bobblehead. This victory marked the Timberwolves’ eighth win in their last ten games.
On the opposing side, the Trail Blazers took an early 15-point lead but were ultimately unable to maintain their momentum. Anfernee Simons was the standout for Portland, contributing 21 points, while teammates Jerami Grant and Shaedon Sharpe each added 14 points to the tally.
A few notable highlights included point guard Rob Dillingham, selected eighth overall in the 2024 NBA draft, who made his first career start. He finished the game with eight points from a 4-for-12 shooting performance, struggling from beyond the arc with no conversions from three-point range but managed to record six assists.
One of the turning points in the game came when Rudy Gobert blocked a shot, leading to McDaniels’ pull-up basket that shifted the momentum, putting Minnesota ahead 91-90 with just 6:48 remaining on the clock. This key moment completed a 21-7 run that energized the Timberwolves.
The final quarter was a display of dominance as Minnesota outscored Portland by an impressive 38-14 margin, sealing their victory and demonstrating their depth as a team.
Looking ahead, both teams will be back in action on Monday night, with the Trail Blazers traveling to Denver and the Timberwolves facing off against Cleveland.
