MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minnesota Timberwolves overcame a 10-point deficit to defeat the Orlando Magic 118-111 on Friday night, extending their winning streak to seven games. Key player Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 28 points, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
With 10:23 remaining and the Timberwolves trailing 90-82, they ignited the crowd at Target Center by launching on a remarkable 13-0 run. Donte DiVincenzo, contributing significantly off the bench, kicked off the run with a dynamic reverse layup, culminating his scoring streak with another reverse layup and a driving floater.
Despite the Timberwolves' resurgence, the Magic appeared to have regained control, tying the game at 98 with just 3:32 left on the clock. This rally was spearheaded by the outstanding Paolo Banchero, who scored 43 points and grabbed 11 rebounds, underscoring his status as one of the league's rising stars. Banchero noted after the game, “We just came up short. We put up a good fight, made some good runs throughout the game and gave ourselves a chance to win. They just made more plays than we did.”
But the Timberwolves responded decisively, scoring the next nine points to swing momentum back in their direction. Other notable performances came from Julius Randle, who added 22 points, and DiVincenzo, who finished with 14 points and five assists. Rudy Gobert made his presence felt, contributing 12 points along with 12 rebounds, showcasing the depth of Minnesota's roster.
Orlando had built up their lead thanks to aggressive play early, including solid three-point shooting, as both teams tied with 12 three-pointers made during the game. The Magic finished shooting 44.9 percent from the field and were effective from beyond the arc at 42.9 percent. Franz Wagner also contributed, albeit on a tough shooting night, managing 16 points but struggling with his efficiency, going 4-of-16 from the field.
Despite the defeat, Magic coach Jamahl Mosley praised his team's effort, highlighting their brief moments of brilliance during the game. “I think we ended the quarter with seven stops in a row, and I think that's what allowed us to go on our run,” Mosley said.
The Magic faced challenges going up against the Timberwolves, who were riding high on their home court advantage. The Timberwolves now improve to 19-14 at home and are pushing for playoff contention, currently fighting for positioning among the top teams in the Western Conference.
Although Orlando had their chances, their inability to convert key possessions late cost them dearly. With the victory, the Timberwolves retained their edge over teams around them, aiming to secure their playoff spot.
Looking ahead, the Magic, currently holding eighth place in the Eastern Conference, continued their road trip with another game against the Cleveland Cavaliers scheduled for Sunday, March 16th, 2025. With only one more game left on this five-game road stretch, they desperately need to secure victories.
The Timberwolves are also back on the court this Sunday as they host the Utah Jazz, hoping to maintain their momentum and improve their standings.