MINNEAPOLIS — In a closely contested matchup, the Milwaukee Bucks triumphed over the Minnesota Timberwolves with a score of 103-101, despite missing their star players, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. Kyle Kuzma played a pivotal role in the victory, contributing 19 points and securing 13 rebounds in just his fourth game since being traded from Washington.
As the game neared its conclusion, the Timberwolves had a chance to tie or win, yet Anthony Edwards missed a jumper in the dying seconds, allowing Kuzma to grab the crucial rebound. Gary Trent Jr. also made a significant impact for the Bucks, coming off the bench to score 21 points as the team headed into the All-Star break after overcoming a streak of losses, having dropped six of their previous eight games.
Antetokounmpo remained sidelined for the sixth consecutive game due to a strained left calf, while Lillard was given the night off due to a strained right hamstring.
On the opposing side, Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 28 points, though he struggled with his shooting, ending the night 10 for 33 overall and 4 for 16 from beyond the arc, including a stretch of 15 consecutive misses. Rudy Gobert added 20 points and hauled in 14 rebounds, while Naz Reid contributed 22 points and 13 rebounds. The Timberwolves also faced challenges with player availability, missing Mike Conley (right index finger strain), Donte DiVincenzo (left great toe sprain), and Julius Randle (right groin strain).
In terms of takeaways, the Bucks showcased their depth and resilience by securing a victory without their two All-Stars, with Kuzma stepping up as a reliable scorer. On the other hand, the Timberwolves faced yet another challenging evening characterized by a slow start and ineffective shooting, leading to their disheartening defeat.
A pivotal moment in the game occurred when Reid sank a three-pointer, briefly putting the Timberwolves ahead 101-99 with just under 48 seconds remaining. However, Milwaukee responded as Kevin Porter hit a mid-range jumper to equalize, followed by Brook Lopez drawing a foul and converting both free throws, sealing the Bucks’ victory.
Statistically, the Timberwolves ended the game shooting a disappointing 37.9% from the field, marking their lowest shooting percentage of the season. They also struggled significantly from three-point range, making only 10 of 44 attempts (22.7%).
Looking ahead, the Bucks will face off against the Los Angeles Clippers on February 20, while the Timberwolves are set to host the NBA’s top team, the Oklahoma City Thunder, on Thursday night.
