Record-Breaking Comeback
In a stunning turn of events, the Timberwolves rallied from a 20-point deficit to defeat the defending champions, the Nuggets, 98-90 in Game 7. This victory marks the Timberwolves’ first appearance in the Western Conference Finals in 20 years and sets a new record for the largest comeback in NBA playoff history.
Wolves’ Resilience
Trailing by 15 points at halftime and facing a 20-point deficit in the third quarter, the Timberwolves refused to back down. Led by Karl-Anthony Towns, the 2015 first overall draft pick, and this season’s Sixth Man of the Year, Jaden McDaniels, the Timberwolves mounted a remarkable 19-3 run to close the gap to just one point by the end of the third quarter. They completed the comeback in the fourth quarter, rewriting the record books with the largest halftime comeback in Game 7 history.
Edward’s Impact
At just 22 years old, Anthony Edwards played a pivotal role in the Timberwolves’ historic victory. Despite struggling on offense, shooting only 6 for 24 from the field, Edwards made significant contributions on the defensive end, particularly in limiting Jamal Murray to just 11 points in the second half after his explosive 24-point first half. Nikola Jokic’s impressive 34-point, 19-rebound performance for the Nuggets was not enough to alter the outcome.
Coach and Player Reactions
Head coach Chris Finch expressed his pride in his team’s resilience, while Murray emphasized the Nuggets’ disappointment in failing to advance. Looking ahead, Murray believes the Nuggets will return next season with renewed motivation, ready to reclaim their former glory.
Eastern Conference Drama
In the Eastern Conference, the Pacers secured their spot in the conference finals with a dominant 130-109 victory over the Knicks in Game 7. Led by Tyrese Haliburton’s 26 points, the Pacers advanced to the conference finals for the first time in a decade. They will face the Celtics, who finished the regular season with the league’s best record, in the next round. (Superace88)