On March 28, 2025, the Phoenix Suns faced off against the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Target Center in Minneapolis, marking yet another disappointing chapter in their season as they fell 124-109. This loss not only extended the Suns’ losing streak against the Timberwolves to eight games but also completed a four-game sweep for Minnesota in the regular season.
The Timberwolves, now boasting a record of 42-32, showcased their dominance throughout the game. They jumped to an early lead, establishing a 14-4 advantage within the first four minutes. Julius Randle, who was instrumental for Minnesota, scored 25 points, accompanied by six rebounds and eight assists, while Anthony Edwards added 20 points, including 17 in the second half after returning from a nasal contusion that sidelined him for the entire second quarter.
For the Suns, the night was marked by struggles, particularly from star player Devin Booker, who went scoreless in the first half for only the second time in more than five years. He finished the game with just 10 points on 4-of-14 shooting, missing all six of his attempts from beyond the arc. Kevin Durant led the Suns with 23 points and six rebounds, but even his efforts couldn’t shift the tide.
Collin Gillespie emerged as a bright spot for Phoenix, scoring a career-high 22 points and dishing out 10 assists, while Royce O’Neale contributed 21 points off the bench. Unfortunately for the Suns, their offensive struggles were compounded by the absence of Bradley Beal, who missed his sixth consecutive game due to a left hamstring strain.
As the game progressed, the Timberwolves maintained their lead, extending it to as much as 22 points in the third quarter. Despite a valiant effort from the Suns to claw back into the game, Minnesota’s physicality and defensive intensity proved too much to overcome. The Timberwolves out-rebounded the Suns 43-34 and shot a blistering 52.8% from the field, including 48.7% from three-point range.
"Our defensive intensity was back," Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch remarked after the game. "I thought Jaden was really special on defense tonight," referring to Jaden McDaniels, who played a critical role in limiting Booker’s effectiveness.
McDaniels not only locked down Booker but also contributed offensively with 16 points. His strong performance, combined with Rudy Gobert’s 17 points and 12 rebounds, highlighted a well-rounded team effort from the Timberwolves.
"When Rudy is playing his best ball, that’s when we’re all playing our best ball," said Timberwolves guard Mike Conley, emphasizing Gobert’s impact on the team’s performance.
Despite the loss, the Suns remain in contention for a play-in spot in the Western Conference, currently sitting at 35-39 and one game behind the Dallas Mavericks for the 10th seed. The Sacramento Kings, who improved to 36-37, are also within reach, making the upcoming games crucial for Phoenix.
The Suns are set to face the Houston Rockets next, and with just a handful of games remaining in the regular season, the pressure is mounting. With their playoff hopes hanging in the balance, the Suns need to find a way to turn their fortunes around quickly.
As the Timberwolves prepare to host the Detroit Pistons next, they will look to build on their recent success and continue their push for a favorable playoff position. The Suns, on the other hand, must regroup and address the inconsistencies that have plagued them throughout the season if they hope to salvage their playoff aspirations.
