NBA Final Score: Timberwolves 144, Kings 117
Edwards Leads Timberwolves to Victory
Anthony Edwards started the game missing his first five shots but then surged to score 26 points, overwhelming the Sacramento Kings. The Minnesota Timberwolves began a quick road back-to-back Sunday in Sacramento, facing the Kings. Both teams were coming off tough losses two days prior—Minnesota had crushed the Utah Jazz by 40 points, while Sacramento was thoroughly beaten by the Oklahoma City Thunder by 31.
Game Highlights and Player Impact
The Timberwolves wore their striking retro black "tree" jerseys, with Rudy Gobert setting the tone early. He blocked a jumper from Domantas Sabonis, who had just returned from a two-game absence, recovered the loose ball, and completed a coast-to-coast layup. Gobert finished the first quarter a perfect four-for-four from the field and recorded three blocks.
Despite Edwards’ slow start, early points from Donte DiVincenzo and Julius Randle kept the Kings close. Sacramento shot an efficient 6-for-11 on three-pointers in the period, which allowed them to trail only 31-25 at the end of the first quarter.
Playing Style and Team Performances
The Kings maintained a style focused on isolation one-on-one plays, which limited their overall effectiveness. Meanwhile, Minnesota’s balanced attack and defensive intensity set them apart as the game progressed.
"Rudy Gobert opened the game by blocking a Domantas Sabonis jumper, corralling the loose ball, then finishing a coast-to-coast layup."
"They only carried a small 31-25 lead because of Sacramento’s six for 11 three-point shooting mark."
Author's summary: Anthony Edwards overcame a slow start to lead the Timberwolves past the Kings, with Gobert’s defensive dominance and Minnesota’s efficient offense securing a commanding 144-117 win.