Canis Hoopus - All Posts82-0https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/48315/canis_hoopus_favicon.png2024-03-18T23:32:35-05:00http://www.canishoopus.com/rss/current/2024-03-18T23:32:35-05:002024-03-18T23:32:35-05:00Wolves 114, Jazz 104: Anthony Edwards Destroys John Collins, Utah Defense For Big Win
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<img alt="Minnesota Timberwolves v Utah Jazz" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Izoe-kzqWPMWJc2p6k7PHBkzfMk=/0x0:5472x3648/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73216987/2087342018.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Anthony Edwards, who scored 32 points, stole the show against Collin Sexton, Lauri Markkanen and the Utah Jazz with his dunk of the year and second-half takeover after losing Naz Reid to a head injury.</p> <p id="oqED43">Coming off <a href="https://www.canishoopus.com/timberwolves-scores-results/2024/3/16/24103131/wolves-vs-jazz-final-score-recap-anthony-edwards-mike-conley-naz-reid-keyonte-george-collin-sexton">a 119-100 win</a> over the <a href="https://www.slcdunk.com">Utah Jazz</a> at Delta Center Saturday night, the <a href="https://www.canishoopus.com">Minnesota Timberwolves</a> were back in the same building on Monday, wrapping up a six-game road trip and hoping to sweep the season series with the Utah for the first time ever, stay above .500 in that span, and further boost their seeding outcome.</p>
<p id="vo6wJX">At this juncture in the schedule, every game is important regardless of the opponent. The Jazz, who sit at 13th in the Western Conference, are at a completely different point than the Wolves. Utah is rebuilding and looking to the future, while Minnesota is gearing up for a historic postseason run. While this game may not draw national attention or go into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, it still holds postseason implications for the Wolves.</p>
<p id="rBHuqy">Heading into Monday night, the Wolves found themselves half a game back from the Denver Nuggets for the second seed and one game back from the Oklahoma City Thunder for the first seed in the West. As the regular season winds down, those three teams will be jockeying back and forth for the No. 1 seed and, ultimately, home-court advantage. </p>
<p id="iIcgsA">Because the Wolves, Thunder, and Nuggets are all in the Northwest Division, the club with the better divisional record will be awarded the tiebreaker in the event of a tie between any combination of the three teams. Luckily for the Wolves, they currently have the best record in the Northwest division and must keep up their success against their interdivisional foes.</p>
<p id="dqLnRJ">Divisional records:</p>
<ul>
<li id="MCTyBe">Timberwolves: 10-2 (83.3% win) (still plays Denver three times, including Tuesday)</li>
<li id="kiChlv">Thunder: 11-4 (73.3% win) (plays against Utah once more)</li>
<li id="xMym3g">Nuggets: 6-5 (54.5% win) (still plays Minnesota 3 times and Utah and Portland once)</li>
</ul>
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<p id="y9XUk3">Right off the jump Monday night, the Jazz and the Wolves were getting after it on defense. As mentioned above, Utah is a young and hungry team focused on the future, and Minnesota is seeking a potential playoff-seeding advantage. Unfortunately for the Jazz, there is only so much the frontcourt of Lauri Markkanen and John Collins can do defensively. Head Coach Will Hardy elected to start Collins at the 5 and match him up against Naz Reid, which proved to be an incredibly tough defensive assignment.</p>
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<p lang="de" dir="ltr">Naz. Reid. <a href="https://t.co/1xJyqfZFdW">pic.twitter.com/1xJyqfZFdW</a></p>— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) <a href="https://twitter.com/Timberwolves/status/1769895863277568288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2024</a>
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<p id="GpzBpv">Reid got the scoring started for Minnesota with a put-back floater over the back of Keyonte George and a post-up over Collins. Through the first five minutes, the Wolves were already 4-of-4 from the paint, 0-of-4 from deep, and had a blueprint for success for the rest of the game: Pound the ball inside, and good things should happen.</p>
<p id="3rG0NI">Between 7:59 and 5:44 in the first frame, the Jazz went on a 12-0 run, taking a quick 12-point lead. George, the rookie out of Baylor, injected life into his team and proved to the fans, his team, and his opponent that Utah was bringing in a much better offensive mindset than they did on Saturday.</p>
<p id="BGFI7z">Offensively, the Wolves seemed discombobulated and directionless as the first quarter progressed. They turned the ball over seven times after recording nine total turnovers for the entire game on Saturday. Those seven giveaways turned into 10 Jazz points. Utah isn’t a team that frequently lives in transition. It ranks 28th in points off turnovers per game (14.5), 16th in fast break points (14.2), and is tied for dead last in steals (6.6). However, the backcourt of Collin Sexton and George proved they have no issue getting out and running when presented with the opportunity.</p>
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<p lang="de" dir="ltr">Naz Reid relocation 3 <a href="https://t.co/tJP3oQeBra">pic.twitter.com/tJP3oQeBra</a></p>— Timberwolves Clips (@WolvesClips) <a href="https://twitter.com/WolvesClips/status/1769902240611864789?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2024</a>
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<p id="3TV7Zr">After trailing by 12 points at the end of one, Reid reminded the packed Delta Center who he was and the importance of the two words Wolves fans frequently speak of. He connected on a low post hook, his second already in the game, and netted on a relocation triple a few possessions later. All of a sudden, it was a five-point game after Minnesota, led by Reid’s game-high 14 points, started the second frame on an 11-4 run.</p>
<p id="PuHnF8">“And here come the Wolves,” said Michael Grady as Utah called timeout.</p>
<p id="KqxxsG">Timberwolves Head Coach Chris Finch opened the second with the lineup of Jordan McLaughlin, Mike Conley, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Kyle Anderson, and Reid. In 6:46 straight minutes together, that group outscored the Jazz 19-10, shot 7-of-11 from the floor, and held Utah to 4-of-13 shooting.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">yessir NAW. <a href="https://t.co/HVarYbQFYh">pic.twitter.com/HVarYbQFYh</a></p>— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) <a href="https://twitter.com/Timberwolves/status/1769903106601480261?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2024</a>
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<p id="RrAQMe">McLaughlin and NAW hit a combined three triples in the span, and the Wolves were able to take better care of the ball — the two driving factors to getting back into the game. However, offensive rebounds kept Hardy’s group around. With 3:37 left until halftime, Utah — which ranks second in offensive rebound percentage (32.9%) — hauled in six offensive rebounds and recorded 11 second-chance points. That small ball lineup worked on offense for the Wolves, but they had no size on the glass with Reid being the lone center on the floor and Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert both out.</p>
<p id="5acm8C">Both teams went blow for blow as the first 24 minutes ended, but the Wolves managed to outscore the Jazz by six points in the frame. They took better care of the ball and received big-time scoring from their bench, which helped mask the low production for Edwards, who recorded just seven points on 3-of-8 from the floor in the first half. The Wolves were also outscored by 16 points during his 17 minutes. </p>
<p id="X9GKKj">Reid was the one constant for Minnesota, tallying 17 points on 7-of-12 from the floor. However, he suffered a head injury as the first half ended, and the Wolves ruled him out while the team was in the locker room during the intermission.</p>
<p id="C7DQjA">The Wolves, who have had a dog-like mentality all season, didn’t let that potential game-altering news discourage them early in the second half. They came out of the break with three quick makes in the first two minutes. The ball was flying around the horn, and the defense was active; both would be crucial the rest of the way if Minnesota — now down its three rotational big men — hoped to pull out the win against a much more energetic Jazz team.</p>
<p id="aaO8Ny">Then, with 5:29 left in the third, <em>it happened</em>. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">NAH YOU NEEDA WATCH THIS AGAIN. <a href="https://t.co/wraIyHA4Uk">pic.twitter.com/wraIyHA4Uk</a></p>— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) <a href="https://twitter.com/Timberwolves/status/1769915252244635865?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2024</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Believe That.<br><br> <a href="https://twitter.com/lissa363?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lissa363</a> // Getty Images <a href="https://t.co/8nCNCZYBI4">pic.twitter.com/8nCNCZYBI4</a></p>— Canis Hoopus (@canishoopus) <a href="https://twitter.com/canishoopus/status/1769938646788899159?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2024</a>
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<p id="o1km7M">Ant gave the ball to NAW, quickly got it back, saw a four-course meal awaiting him in the paint, soared up, and threw down <em><strong>the dunk of the year</strong></em> over John Collins. He took flight, put his hand in Collins’ face, and whipped the ball through the rim in an emphatic fashion. You could hear the excitement and amazement from everyone in the building. The home crowd let out the loudest gasp I have heard from inside an opponent’s gym.</p>
<p id="1qw92y">Edwards was in pain as soon as he landed, though. He grabbed his left hand, showing his teammates what had happened, seemingly telling them to calm down and not bump into him out of excitement. Jaden saw what had happened and cringed, and Edwards confirmed postgame that he dislocated a finger. However, after a short trip back to the locker room, Ant was back on the floor and played the rest of his usual third-quarter stint, making sure to begin putting his superstar stamp on an eventual win.</p>
<p id="V39Bxo">The dunk gave the Timberwolves a lead they never gave back to the Jazz.</p>
<p id="QA0ksx">But the euphoric slam injected a jolt into both teams. The Wolves outscored the Jazz 30-24 in the frame, but Utah would not roll over and let Minnesota pull away. Sexton splashed in three triples in the final 2:32 minutes leading up to the fourth, enough to tie the game up at 83.</p>
<p id="URcM9N">The Wolves, per usual, began the fourth quarter without Ant on the floor as he took a well-deserved breather on the bench. With Reid already out, there was a good chance things could have gone horribly wrong out of the break. However, the Wolves added 10 points and held the Jazz to seven until Edwards returned with 8:37 left in the game — setting up the perfect runway for AE5 and company to close out a gutsy win amid a banged-up and tired squad, ready to get back in their own beds after a six-game road trip.</p>
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<p lang="da" dir="ltr">s e n s a t i o n a l <a href="https://t.co/LtZFvPP0EM">pic.twitter.com/LtZFvPP0EM</a></p>— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) <a href="https://twitter.com/Timberwolves/status/1769921875759534431?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2024</a>
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<p id="01CgRq">Right on cue, Edwards, who registered 25 points in the second half, hit some superstar shots down the stretch, coupled with a massively clutch corner triple from NAW and equally as clutch smaller plays on both ends from Anderson, Conley, and even McDaniels, who pulled in a clutch rebound and (cough, cough) connected on his first triple of the game at the buzzer with the game already out of reach, much to the displeasure of the opposing team and fans. The Wolves outscored the Jazz 31-21 in the fourth and were able to head back to Minneapolis on a high note.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Anthony Edwards scored or assisted on 42 of the Wolves' 61 points in the 2H.<br><br>He scored 25 points on 10/15 FG, had the dunk of the year, six assists, and did not turn the ball over in the 2H, often getting doubled/tripled on the perimeter.<br><br>Insane.<a href="https://t.co/kBrFg2xVnW">pic.twitter.com/kBrFg2xVnW</a></p>— Jack Borman (@jrborman13) <a href="https://twitter.com/jrborman13/status/1769926511862149510?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2024</a>
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<h2 id="jQxlte"><strong>Key Takeaways</strong></h2>
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<img alt="Minnesota Timberwolves v Utah Jazz" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/qTBGHVavHJgsl9DLkk4Y8vwJGDo=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25343611/2087341789.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images</cite>
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<h3 id="9G7Na6"><strong>Anthony Edwards’ Superstar Takeover</strong></h3>
<p id="a3ErGW">Of course, Edwards’ dunk in the third quarter was a turning point for the rest of the game. The expression on all of his teammate’s faces was, “What did I just witness? This guy can’t be real.” </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Kyle Anderson’s face says it all. Anthony Edwards is not human. <a href="https://t.co/SdrfyX2tOZ">pic.twitter.com/SdrfyX2tOZ</a></p>— Felipe Alvarez (@FelipeFromMiami) <a href="https://twitter.com/FelipeFromMiami/status/1769915349439332361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2024</a>
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<p id="7Z0poK">The throw-down slam was otherworldly and something I will never forget, but Ant did stop with just that tide-turning play; he went on to have an incredible second half after a sluggish first half.</p>
<p id="35Arzs">Through the first 24 minutes, Edwards recorded just seven points on 3-of-8 from the floor. He wasn’t very aggressive and didn’t seek out his own shot. To his credit, Reid was filling up the stat sheet, so differing to him in the two-man game was the correct read. However, it is obvious that AE5 went to another level once he found out Reid was ruled out for the rest of the game. Just like we have grown to expect from the still only 22-year-old, Ant took command in the third and turned in a superstar second half – registering 25 points, six rebounds, and six assists, with zero turnovers on 10-of-15 from the floor.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Nickeil Alexander-Walker: “I don’t think people honestly understand what they’ve just seen. ... Walk to a free-throw line, take a step & just try to grab the mesh & then you’ll understand what the hell he just did. That was probably the craziest thing I’ve ever witnessed by far.”</p>— Chris Hine (@ChristopherHine) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChristopherHine/status/1769938773696008364?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2024</a>
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<p id="BDQ3HF">“I thought [the dunk] is really what flipped the game around for us, just from an emotional point of view,” <a href="https://x.com/BallySportsNOR/status/1769931571174211916?s=20">said</a> Finch postgame. “We needed a really big play. And all credit to Anthony, too. He didn’t start the game the greatest. We looked kind of sluggish, but he kept at it. He knows when guys are out and we become shorthanded, he has to step up. It was a spectacular play.”</p>
<p id="vnEeKE">Sensational. Nothing else to say.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Defensive and offensive highlight of the year in the span of 12 days <a href="https://t.co/612bmxRWEZ">pic.twitter.com/612bmxRWEZ</a></p>— jakes graphs (@jakesgraphs) <a href="https://twitter.com/jakesgraphs/status/1769935449265496180?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2024</a>
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<img alt="Minnesota Timberwolves v Utah Jazz" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/-U-V2T0MbkZLN7FFzsWktvGlvRA=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25343639/2087340990.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE via Getty Images</cite>
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<h3 id="yPu7iJ"><strong>A Bench Mob Party</strong></h3>
<p id="dxvOE3">While this game will be remembered as the contest that gave berth to the dunk of the season, the Wolves would not have walked out of Salt Lake City with a win Monday night if it wasn’t for their supporting cast.</p>
<p id="C4ztLi">With Reid ruled out at halftime and the Wolves already down their starting frontcourt, it became even more of a step-up and prove-it game for the Wolves. The bench was called upon to hold the team together during key stretches without Ant on the floor, and they rose to the challenge with incredible poise.</p>
<ul>
<li id="MQuJFE">Alexander-Walker: 13 points, five assists, three steals, two blocks, 3/6 3PT, +26, 34 minutes</li>
<li id="SD6VD7">McLaughlin: 11 points, 3/3 3PT, 2/2 FT, 22 minutes</li>
<li id="ceUU7V">Monte Morris: eight points, 3/5 FG, 2/3 3PT</li>
<li id="VjlGKq">Luka Garza: eight points, 3/5 FG, 2/4 3PT</li>
</ul>
<p id="5RaqPa">Minnesota’s bench was just a combined +11 despite NAW going +26, largely as a result of the T.J. Warren/Garza minutes in the frontcourt. Still, the shot-making and ball movement proved to be invaluable Monday night, especially from guys like J-Mac and NAW. When you are missing two players who account for a good majority of your offense, a way to make up some of those lost points is to make sure the ball flows and touches the hands of everyone on the floor. The Wolves did just before and after Naz went down.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="oFL12C">
<h2 id="40WAdu"><strong>Up Next</strong></h2>
<p id="DGYaeb">It's a quick turnaround for the Wolves, as they hop on a plane tonight and fly back home to take on the defending champion Denver Nuggets in yet another crucial interdivisional matchup Tuesday night at Target Center. </p>
<p id="pXJxzP">The Wolves may be back in the Twin Cities, but the tip-off is still late (8:00 PM CT). Streaming is available on Bally Sports North and NBA TV. You can also listen to Alan Horton call the game on the Wolves App, iHeart Radio and 100.3 KFAN FM.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="tJs9Tq">
<h2 id="bOZ0lA"><strong>Highlights</strong></h2>
<div id="26sjqM"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KnAFUF9CQUE?rel=0" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;"></iframe></div></div>
<div id="1DsgeS"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NfPDNY0VnHQ?rel=0" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;"></iframe></div></div>
https://www.canishoopus.com/timberwolves-scores-results/2024/3/18/24105094/wolves-vs-jazz-final-score-recap-anthony-edwards-dunk-john-collins-nickeil-alexander-walker-naz-reidCharlie Walton2024-03-18T18:35:32-05:002024-03-18T18:35:32-05:00Game Preview #68: Wolves at Jazz
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<img alt="Minnesota Timberwolves v Utah Jazz" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/0tIsOAfizYcO1q6OBy1ZvhjcYE0=/0x0:6096x4064/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73214248/2082128936.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Anthony Edwards and the Timberwolves will look to sweep two-game set and season series against Collin Sexton, Keyonte George and the Jazz on Monday night.</p> <p id="x1Rh93">In a rematch of <a href="https://www.canishoopus.com/timberwolves-scores-results/2024/3/16/24103131/wolves-vs-jazz-final-score-recap-anthony-edwards-mike-conley-naz-reid-keyonte-george-collin-sexton">Saturday’s face off</a>, Anthony Edwards and the <a href="https://www.canishoopus.com">Minnesota Timberwolves</a> will look to sweep the season series with the <a href="https://www.slcdunk.com">Utah Jazz</a>, who are once again deep into tank mode.</p>
<p id="Edhjeg">Rudy Gobert (left rib sprain) is questionable after missing the previous game, while Kyle Anderson (right shoulder pain) and Monte Morris (left hamstring strain) are also questionable despite playing in the win at Delta Center on Saturday.</p>
<p id="nzlKwR">The Jazz, 3-7 in their last 10 games, and have seen a rookie breakthrough for Keyonte George coincide with a growth in their injury report that is probably exactly what Danny Ainge and the front office were hoping for. Utah will get John Collins back for this one after the forward rested on the second leg of a back-to-back on Saturday. Lauri Markkanen (right quadriceps contusion) has been upgraded to questionable, while Jordan Clarkson (right groin strain) remains out. </p>
<p id="8TFcO8">Nevertheless, after beating them just two days before this game, the Wolves are looking to maintain momentum as they chase the top seed in the West, currently held by the Oklahoma City Thunder, only one game in front.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="QyEjj7">
<h2 id="00pYWK"><strong>Game Info</strong></h2>
<ul>
<li id="WY5fuZ">Who: Minnesota Timberwolves (46-21) at Utah Jazz (29-38)</li>
<li id="leGZDF">When: Monday, March 18 at 8:00 PM CT</li>
<li id="rDyWjn">Where: Delta Center – Salt Lake City, Utah</li>
<li id="3q3QNg">TV: Bally Sports North (Michael Grady, Jim Petersen and Kevin Lynch)</li>
<li id="sR38wF">Radio: Wolves App, iHeart Radio, KFAN 100.3 FM</li>
<li id="ayzBAj">Line: Wolves -7.5 | Total: 223 (courtesy of <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/basketball/nba/minnesota-timberwolves--odds">DraftKings Sportsbook</a>)</li>
</ul>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="uYe9AS">
<h2 id="VEfLzt"><strong>Injury Report</strong></h2>
<p id="JsiEd7">Updated as of Monday, March 18 at 6:30 PM CT:</p>
<h3 id="JCDqJ2"><strong>Minnesota:</strong></h3>
<p id="1y7l2r">AVAILABLE:</p>
<ul>
<li id="5NsJkH">Kyle Anderson (right shoulder pain)</li>
<li id="iNAyOJ">Monte Morris (left hamstring strain)</li>
</ul>
<p id="1qMx8z">OUT:</p>
<ul>
<li id="HAlell">Jaylen Clark (right achilles tendon rupture rehab)</li>
<li id="1Z1bex">Rudy Gobert (left rib sprain)</li>
<li id="XT72lq">Daishen Nix (two-way contract)</li>
<li id="edULAX">Karl-Anthony Towns (left meniscus tear)</li>
</ul>
<h3 id="Gfy08P"><strong>Utah</strong></h3>
<p id="M3ggnR">AVAILABLE:</p>
<ul>
<li id="J2VQ6d">Lauri Markkanen (right quadriceps contusion)</li>
<li id="fS5ZSQ">John Collins (rest)</li>
</ul>
<p id="bZUVe9">OUT:</p>
<ul>
<li id="x1nQIy">Darius Bazley (G League assignment)</li>
<li id="TyTswh">Jordan Clarkson (right groin strain)</li>
<li id="LKQ75M">Johnny Juzang (G League assignment)</li>
<li id="sLZcSv">Kenneth Lofton Jr. (G League assignment)</li>
<li id="gYeYEr">Micah Potter (G League assignment)</li>
<li id="q40Th4">Jason Preston (G League assignment)</li>
</ul>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="ZZipeb">
<h2 id="4bLA7t"><strong>What To Watch For</strong></h2>
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<img alt="NBA: Minnesota Timberwolves at Utah Jazz" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/2bScHOwzNXTCgx7aqnCxcQXJGCk=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25341483/usa_today_22798024.jpg">
<cite>Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
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<h3 id="oeJvUJ"><strong>(Technically) Former Wolves Draft Pick Putting It Together</strong></h3>
<p id="BjZYOG">Keyonte George, after a good, but certainly not breath-taking rookie season, is figuring it all out. The first pick from the Rudy Gobert trade has been blazing in his last five games.</p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Keyonte George's last 5 games<br><br>25 PTS, 5 AST, 2 STL<br>26 PTS, 6 AST, 5 3PT, 2 BLK<br>29 PTS, 6 AST, 5 3PT<br>0 PTS in 6 MINS (left with illness)<br>31 PTS, 6 3PT, 4 AST <a href="https://t.co/hjqp4xp5Vv">pic.twitter.com/hjqp4xp5Vv</a></p>— Ballislife.com (@Ballislife) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ballislife/status/1768978320811504118?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2024</a>
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<p id="98D4yW">George has been starting for the Jazz since November, but has been shooting far more with the sporadic absences of Clarkson and Markkanen. To add to an improved ability to attack the rim, George has been shooting far above his 35% season average from deep, making around 40% in his last 15 games.</p>
<p id="MErIxT">The obvious story here is the Jazz getting a talented youngster with the first conveyed pick of the massive Gobert blockbuster, but the arguable more important trade on court in this game will be the D’Angelo Russell trade of last year’s deadline.</p>
<p id="8rT61N">If Markkanen is back, Nickeil Alexander Walker will be the primary defender dealing with not just George, but also bench slashing guard Collin Sexton. </p>
<p id="cCfzL4">All in all, the Jazz have seen their loss of scoring options buoyed by the duo of Keyonte George and Collin Sexton. Hampering those two and their ability to get to the rim will be massive in shutting down the Jazz’s offense in a manner characteristic of this year’s Timberwolves.</p>
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<img alt="Minnesota Timberwolves v Utah Jazz" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ssfCpC0JZQfurgyPnFYADjbYeF4=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25341618/2082128744.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images</cite>
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<h3 id="3KH5fu"><strong>To Chase or Not To Chase: Who Will Rest?</strong></h3>
<p id="xXjolc">This will be confirmed before the Jazz or Wolves take a step on the hardwood floor of the Delta Center, but it’s still worth a thought.</p>
<p id="tOL8fu">With all of the injuries and nicks and bruises the Timberwolves are facing, is it worth it for Minnesota to play questionable players to chase to top seed or should they simply start preparing for the playoffs?</p>
<p id="3P9Zoj">Utah is not even close to a play-in spot, let alone a top-six seed, so they’ll be facing the opposite question: do we want to rush Markkanen back when we can sandbag another game?</p>
<p id="JzUwxE">For the Wolves, Gobert was sidelined with a rib sprain, while Kyle Anderson has been dealing with a shoulder injury. Gobert missed the last game, while Slow-Mo played a substantial 31 minutes. It’s worth noting that deadline acquisition Monte Morris missed the first 43 games of the season for the <a href="https://www.detroitbadboys.com">Detroit Pistons</a> and is still on the injury report as he plays on a very obvious minutes restriction. Additionally, Mike Conley is 36 with over 1,100 career games. It would be good to minimize the tread on his already well-worn tires.</p>
<p id="LFcqST">The Wolves need to decide organizationally if the allure of the No. 1 seed is worth it. They sit only one game behind the Thunder and half a game behind the Denver Nuggets. That would allow for them to face on of the <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com">Los Angeles Lakers</a>, <a href="https://www.goldenstateofmind.com">Golden State Warriors</a>, <a href="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com">Phoenix Suns</a>, or <a href="https://www.mavsmoneyball.com">Dallas Mavericks</a>. Those are, despite their records, some scary teams led by consensus top-10 players. It is, however, better than facing the New Orleans Pelicans, who are 2-2 against the Wolves (2-0 with Zion Williamson in the lineup) but seem to be a terrible matchup.</p>
<p id="VuWUbg">Monitoring the decisions made on injury statuses will offer insight to what the Wolves value for the rest of the season.</p>
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<img alt="NBA: Minnesota Timberwolves at Utah Jazz" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/kCNc5oAnQW4-JZgIzJcITZ1IMw0=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25341526/usa_today_22798033.jpg">
<cite>Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
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<h3 id="spXuDv"><strong>Can Ant Do It Again?</strong></h3>
<p id="2kwWtA">Last time Anthony Edwards played the Jazz, he went 12/20 from the field, 5/7 from deep, and tallied a 31-point double-double with 10 rebounds. He was the team’s only offense for the first half while the rest of the team languished on the way to a two-point deficit, and then took over in the fourth quarter to power the team to a 19-point victory.</p>
<p id="qjLtfT">The question will be, as it often is for Ant, if he can duplicate that performance once again on Monday night.</p>
<p id="odubjn">During the Wolves 4-4 stretch in their last eight, the Wolves are 3-0 when Edwards scores 30 or more points. They are 1-2 when he scores less than 20. To add to that, they are 1-3 when the former No. 1 overall pick shoots below 45% from the field. </p>
<p id="qDle9v">The answer is pretty clear. When Ant is succeeding, the Wolves are succeeding. When he’s struggling, they struggle too. That’s usually the case when it comes to franchise stars, so this is an unsurprising stat, but it’s become even more important with the absence of Karl-Anthony Towns or any other real offensive pillar on the roster. </p>
https://www.canishoopus.com/2024/3/17/24104354/wolves-vs-jazz-preview-starting-time-tv-schedule-injury-report-anthony-edwards-mike-conley-naz-reidThilo Latrell Widder2024-03-16T23:55:45-05:002024-03-16T23:55:45-05:00Wolves 119, Jazz 100: Conley, Edwards Hit the Right Notes to Breeze Past Utah
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<img alt="NBA: Minnesota Timberwolves at Utah Jazz" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/jVKzZzZpPh7cZW_8FmJRhf_XxKc=/0x0:2883x1922/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73212683/usa_today_22796964.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Anthony Edwards, Mike Conley, and Naz Reid combined for 78 points — including a season-high 25 for Conley — to take down Utah, who got 22 points and 10 assists from Collin Sexton in the loss.</p> <p id="ReorVx">Following three straight off days, the <a href="https://www.canishoopus.com">Minnesota Timberwolves</a>, who were without their two All-Star big men Rudy Gobert and Karl-Anthony Towns, took on the <a href="https://www.slcdunk.com">Utah Jazz</a>, who themselves were without Lauri Markkanen, Jordan Clarkson, and John Collins.</p>
<p id="rqveG2">Both teams would start the game very slowly offensively with each team scoring only 19 points in the first quarter. The two teams would combine to shoot 30.6% from the field and 15% from beyond the arc.</p>
<p id="hDkukZ">In the second quarter, each team would be able to get the lid off the basket a little bit with the Wolves surging into the lead with a 13-1 run capped off by a Jaden McDaniels fadeaway jumper. McDaniels started 0/3 from the floor, but got back on track with a pair of scores off of cuts, giving him the confidence to attack Jazz guard Keyonte George in the post.</p>
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<p lang="und" dir="ltr">13-1 RUN <a href="https://t.co/8HZ6y9JxkC">pic.twitter.com/8HZ6y9JxkC</a></p>— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) <a href="https://twitter.com/Timberwolves/status/1769190538564022637?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2024</a>
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<p id="Q9mCvX">The Jazz would come right back with a 13-5 run of their own to close the quarter with the score tied 48-48. Anthony Edwards led all scorers at the break with 14 points, as George paced Utah with 11.</p>
<p id="gISmlb">To start the second half, Mike Conley came out of the locker room on fire, making his first 3-pointers, including a pair of back-to-back right corner triples that gave the Timberwolves a lead they would take with them to the finish line.</p>
<div id="uBOst0">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Mike loves a revenge game <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RaisedByWolves?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RaisedByWolves</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBA?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBA</a> <a href="https://t.co/OQRPG4XwBp">pic.twitter.com/OQRPG4XwBp</a></p>— Bally Sports North (@BallySportsNOR) <a href="https://twitter.com/BallySportsNOR/status/1769197981805240801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2024</a>
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<p id="NHn68J">The Wolves would take Conley’s hot shooting and build on it throughout the third, finishing the quarter shooting 13-23 from the field including 5/9 from downtown. The increased offense allowed Minnesota to finally get a little separation from Utah, leading 82-72 heading into the fourth quarter.</p>
<p id="3CJhB8">The Wolves would take that lead and not look back with Minnesota Mike continuing his scorching-hot shooting from downtown.</p>
<div id="WhNx9o">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Naz Reid block, Mike Conley transition corner 3 <a href="https://t.co/sV59w9w87X">pic.twitter.com/sV59w9w87X</a></p>— Timberwolves Clips (@WolvesClips) <a href="https://twitter.com/WolvesClips/status/1769203980133904887?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2024</a>
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<p id="pshbbV">The Minnesota lead would stay at eight or more for the remainder of the game as the Timberwolves won 119-100 over the Jazz in Utah.</p>
<p id="0ew5jb">Edwards led all scorers with 31 points, adding 10 rebounds, five assists, three steals, and three blocks. Conley scored 25, with Reid not far behind at 22 points. Sexton led the Jazz in both scoring and assists with 22 points and 10 assists, while Goerge added 18 points on 5/16 shooting, and had more turnovers (four) than assists (two).</p>
<p id="O0d8Tn">The Timberwolves made 19 of their final 35 3-pointers (54%) after starting 0/6 from deep, while holding the Jazz to just 6/26 (23%) on their looks from deep. A +13 advantage in made 3-pointers is going to get you a win almost every night in today’s NBA, and it was the difference for Minnesota tonight.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="VZGLDr">
<h2 id="Kd7WFv"><strong>Key Takeaways</strong></h2>
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<img alt="Minnesota Timberwolves v Utah Jazz" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/X8IkI1W3KynMKleaFa1nr7TW3Eg=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25340286/2082126685.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<h3 id="ozkXMh"><strong>Minnesota Mike Conley</strong></h3>
<p id="MdiuRR">Mike Conley showed again how invaluable he is for this Timberwolves team as he scored a season-high 25 points on 8/12 shooting from the field and 5/8 from deep against his former team. This was Conley’s second game this season scoring at least 20+ points, with the first one coming... in Tuesday’s win over the Los Angeles Clippers. The win on Saturday moved the Wolves to a tremendous 32-6 record when Conley drains at least two 3-pointers.</p>
<p id="2OHDX0">Not only did Conley have the second-most points in the game behind Edwards, but each made 3-pointer seemed to come at a pivotal time for the Wolves. Whether it was coming after a Utah run, or to cap off a Wolves run of their own, Conley was able to hit the important shots when they were presented to him.</p>
<p id="qbsWxT">This is an especially important development for the 36-year-old, who has shown some signs of slowing down since the All-Star break. A game like this shows that any bad stretch from Conley is just the normal ups and downs of the season and not a sign of aging from the veteran player.</p>
<p id="PTEGtz">So many times throughout the first half of the season the Wolves relied on Conley to dig them out of a hole they had created and almost every time, Minnesota Mike was up to the task.</p>
<p id="7AI02B">Tonight, after a sluggish first half from nearly the entire team, Conley was able to open the second half with a few clutch baskets which were able to propel the Wolves to victory.</p>
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<img alt="Minnesota Timberwolves v Utah Jazz" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/TeYKvbA2_Qk_DpwQ_3ZK6dRNNMg=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25340283/2082127380.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE via Getty Images</cite>
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<h3 id="QYzaXp"><strong>Jaden McDaniels’ Offense</strong></h3>
<p id="YIF0D2">With Karl-Anthony Towns out for at least the next four weeks with a torn meniscus and Rudy Gobert out for an unknown amount of time with a rib injury, the Minnesota Timberwolves need some extra scoring punch from their starting unit.</p>
<p id="y4kUFb">One starting player who is struggling offensively for the Wolves is Jaden McDaniels. After missing his first three shots of this game, McDaniels had missed 22 straight shots from the field dating March 10th against the <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com">Los Angeles Lakers</a>.</p>
<p id="xDssdS">Jaden was able to break out of that stretch with a dunk in the second corner and was able to hit a couple more after that, finishing the game with eight points on 4/9 shooting.</p>
<p id="okeewK">The area of McDaniels’ offensive game that is most concerning is his 3-point shooting. In the month of March, Jaden is shooting 7-31 (22.6%) from beyond the arc, with most of his attempts coming on very open looks. Jaden just does not seem to have confidence in that shot and it seems to be affecting the rest of his offensive game. But whether his jumper comes around or not, McDaniels needs to cut like he did on Saturday, as his fluid mobility, great hands, and excellent finishing ability inside are all necessary attributes that all the great cutters have. </p>
<p id="iQs1Qu">For the rest of the regular season, McDaniels will need to find that 3-point shot, as his floor spacing is invaluable for a team that has at least one non-shooter on the court almost every minute of the game. </p>
<p id="5Kfrpk">If opposing defenses have another player that can ignore from long distance, it will make it even more difficult for the Wolves’ 18th-ranked offense to score effectively in the playoffs.</p>
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<img alt="NBA: Minnesota Timberwolves at Utah Jazz" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/_nhPZd3ZWQ5aYQ_TqzWmZcU-P4Y=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25340325/usa_today_22796958.jpg">
<cite>Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
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<h3 id="gc54Yl"><strong>Division Record</strong></h3>
<p id="3erMAc">With the win, the Timberwolves record against the Northwest Division improves to a Western Conference-best 10-2. With the Wolves just one game back of both the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Denver Nuggets, that division record may prove the be the difference in the chase for the number one seed.</p>
<p id="Oa4IGg">The next standings tiebreaker after head-to-head for teams within the same divisions, like the Wolves, Thunder, and Nuggets, is record against other division foes.</p>
<p id="fuTRZJ">With the Wolves splitting the season series against the Thunder and leading their series with the Nuggets 1-0 (with three left to play, including two on the second night of a back-to-back for Minnesota), the division tiebreaker may come into play.</p>
<p id="YQ4iLX">The Timberwolves have a chance to build on that record as still have four more games against the Northwest division including Tuesday against this same Utah Jazz team followed by three remaining matchups with the Nuggets, each of which comes with gigantic stakes in terms of playoff seeding. </p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="WPCqQF">
<h2 id="SBW6R5"><strong>Up Next</strong></h2>
<p id="Wt7z08">These two teams will run it back on Monday night in Salt Lake City before the Timberwolves play their toughest second leg of a back-to-back of the season on Tuesday night in Minneapolis, where they’ll host the Denver Nuggets. </p>
<p id="m97Fxk">Fans can watch Monday’s 8:00 PM CT tip on Bally Sports North. </p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="QOFCnD">
<h2 id="uq0qUe"><strong>Game Highlights</strong></h2>
<div id="ILsehA"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ihU1zBPWpMA?rel=0" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;"></iframe></div></div>
https://www.canishoopus.com/timberwolves-scores-results/2024/3/16/24103131/wolves-vs-jazz-final-score-recap-anthony-edwards-mike-conley-naz-reid-keyonte-george-collin-sextonRyan Eichten2024-03-16T19:37:00-05:002024-03-16T19:37:00-05:00Game Preview #67: Wolves at Jazz
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<img alt="Utah Jazz v Minnesota Timberwolves" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/qiiuUNzA6Eem7BSqKcDOSAcCI-Q=/0x0:5421x3614/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73212131/1871062646.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by David Berding/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Anthony Edwards and the Timberwolves are back in action on Saturday night in Utah, where Minnesota will take on a dynamic Jazz backcourt of Collin Sexton and Keyonte George.</p> <p id="oTgCvG">Anthony Edwards and the <a href="https://www.canishoopus.com">Minnesota Timberwolves</a> are back in action on Saturday night in Salt Lake City, where they will battle a <a href="https://www.slcdunk.com">Utah Jazz</a> team in full on tank mode. </p>
<p id="iDl1Cx">Despite losing 11 of their last 13 entering play on Friday — and taking the court without both Lauri Markkanen (quad contusion) and Jordan Clarkson (groin strain) — the Jazz rode the wave at home and were able to take down the <a href="https://www.peachtreehoops.com">Atlanta Hawks</a> <a href="https://www.slcdunk.com/2024/3/15/24102565/utah-jazz-atlanta-hawks-johnny-juzang-quin-snyder-keyonte-george-taylor-hendricks-dejounte-murray">124-122 last night</a>. Ex-Wolf Vit Krejčí had a look to win it for Quin Snyder’s group in the coach’s return to Utah, but couldn’t connect. </p>
<p id="5kjOi2">Utah will be without Markkanen and Clarkson once again, with John Collins (rest) joining them on the bench, so Minnesota needs to take advantage and put this one away early.</p>
<p id="pvSCDU">Speaking of homecomings, longtime ex-Jazz star Rudy Gobert is questionable to play on Saturday night with a left rib sprain he suffered late in <a href="https://www.canishoopus.com/timberwolves-scores-results/2024/3/13/24096853/wolves-vs-clippers-final-score-recap-anthony-edwards-paul-george-kawhi-leonard-rudy-gobert-injury">Tuesday’s 118-100 comeback win</a> over the Los Angeles Clippers. But according to our friend Chris Hine of the Star Tribune, Gobert was not seen in uniform during Wolves shootaround on Saturday morning.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Rudy Gobert not in uniform as the media is let in for the end of Timberwolves shootaround here in Utah. Not shooting around after.</p>— Chris Hine (@ChristopherHine) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChristopherHine/status/1769046858146758881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2024</a>
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<p id="MZw5Uv"><strong>Update: Gobert was ruled out about an hour and a half before tip.</strong></p>
<p id="7GahBS">Mike Conley will play at Delta Center, where he played for four seasons as the third wheel to Gobert and Donovan Mitchell. </p>
<p id="CwIaXj">The Wolves could get Monte Morris (left hamstring strain) back as well, who hurt himself landing awkwardly after a layup in the first quarter of <a href="https://www.canishoopus.com/timberwolves-scores-results/2024/3/7/24093438/wolves-vs-pacers-final-score-recap-karl-anthony-towns-injury-anthony-edwards-tyrese-haliburton">Minnesota’s 113-111 win over the Indiana Pacers</a> last week, and missed the team’s last three games. Getting a few days off in Los Angeles certainly had to help his chances for playing this two-game set in Utah. </p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="1nWIRA">
<h2 id="00pYWK"><strong>Game Info</strong></h2>
<ul>
<li id="WY5fuZ">Who: Minnesota Timberwolves (45-21) at Utah Jazz (29-37)</li>
<li id="leGZDF">When: Saturday, March 16 at 8:30 PM CT</li>
<li id="rDyWjn">Where: Delta Center – Salt Lake City, Utah</li>
<li id="3q3QNg">TV: Bally Sports North (Michael Grady and Jim Petersen)</li>
<li id="sR38wF">Radio: Wolves App, iHeart Radio, KFAN 100.3 FM</li>
<li id="Fm0OvI">Line: Wolves -7.5 | Total: 225.5 (courtesy of <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/basketball/nba/minnesota-timberwolves--odds">DraftKings Sportsbook</a>)</li>
</ul>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="ZmZteg">
<h2 id="gGkuMp"><strong>Injury Report</strong></h2>
<p id="opdfJP">Updated as of Saturday, March 16 at 7:30 PM CT</p>
<h3 id="NnJEwa"><strong>Minnesota</strong></h3>
<p id="eBKSNw">AVAILABLE:</p>
<ul>
<li id="2COKQV">Kyle Anderson (right shoulder pain)</li>
<li id="VuEvBA">Monte Morris (left hamstring strain)</li>
</ul>
<p id="OtYMDX">OUT:</p>
<ul>
<li id="qMXoHN">Jaylen Clark (right achilles tendon rupture rehab)</li>
<li id="bDr2vP">Rudy Gobert (left rib sprain)</li>
<li id="dZuCbt">Daishen Nix (two-way contract)</li>
<li id="i2e1PQ">Karl-Anthony Towns (torn left meniscus)</li>
</ul>
<h3 id="k5oV7i"><strong>Utah</strong></h3>
<p id="X1TB4h">OUT:</p>
<ul>
<li id="6trbXN">Jordan Clarkson (right groin strain)</li>
<li id="8ocTFT">John Collins (rest)</li>
<li id="v5qvZ3">Lauri Markkanen (quad contusion)</li>
</ul>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="WHrtDd">
<h2 id="jXkPSo"><strong>What to Watch For</strong></h2>
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<img alt="Utah Jazz v Minnesota Timberwolves" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/CEPMLsHQg5tc616Ox7yfud-eTwM=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25339603/1871061057.jpg">
<cite>Photo by David Berding/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<h3 id="J88VhH"><strong>Perimeter Ball Contain</strong></h3>
<p id="F43aA3">With Markkanen (23.1 PPG), Clarkson (17.4 PPG) and Collins (14.6 PPG) all out for this contest, Utah will be missing three of their top-four scorers this season. The next two up are Collin Sexton (18.2 PPG) and rookie point guard Keyonte George (12.7 PPG) — the first pick to convey from the Gobert trade. </p>
<p id="QRLkCt">Sexton (20.3 PPG) and George (18.6 PPG) have both played excellent basketball coming out of the All-Star break, as each player is shooting at least 44.7% from the floor and 40.6% from beyond the arc while maintaining an assist-to-turnover ratio north of 1.75. Both players are quick off the bounce, take care of the ball on drives, and are capable of getting all the way to the rim and scoring or pulling up for mid-range jumpers. </p>
<p id="L7pgN4">Forcing the ball out of both players’ hands as early as possible on the drive will be pivotal. The scoring options Head Coach Will Hardy has outside of his starting backcourt are very limited, as no other player active tonight is averaging double figures in the Jazz’s 10 games since the break. </p>
<p id="NuY7es">Don’t be surprised if Nickeil Alexander-Walker gets the start tonight so he and Jaden McDaniels can check Utah’s guards, leaving Edwards to guard 6-foot-8 wing Taylor Hendricks or the burly 6-foot-5, 235-pound Brice Sensabaugh, depending on who Hardy starts. Alexander-Walker <em>technically </em>started the second half of the Clippers game over Edwards, who was once again late getting to the floor, but was going to start the half in place of Anderson, anyways. </p>
<p id="5kFjEH">The move from Wolves Head Coach Chris Finch balanced the spacing of the first unit around Gobert, and allowed NAW to get into James Harden on the perimeter with McDaniels sliding onto Paul George. As a result, all but one non-garbage time second half lineup was a net positive for the Timberwolves, as they kept their foot on the gas for the entirety of the third and fourth quarters.</p>
<p id="eVUPHY">NAW and McDaniels have both struggled with quick guards, but deploying them both out of the gates and showing length to a pair of small guards — especially in a game Gobert is trending towards missing — would be an important tone-setting move in the first of a two-game set against the Jazz.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Minnesota Timberwolves v Utah Jazz" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/PF5kK9n1JNjJw7ZCfyyH2jRen0Q=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25339595/1246938559.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<h3 id="oHjxfV"><strong>Another Big Spot for Naz Reid</strong></h3>
<p id="eS2e0x">If one or both of Gobert or Anderson miss this one, Naz Reid is going to have to increase his usage <em>and </em>stay out of foul trouble on the other end of the floor. </p>
<p id="Y7AmkH">Reid has done a tremendous job of scaling up his scoring in Karl-Anthony Towns’ absence. In six games he’s played without his fellow New Jersey native, Reid is scoring 5.5 more points (17.7 without Towns, up from 12.2 with Towns) on just 2.2 additional shots per game, and has largely stayed out of foul trouble. The former LSU star played in just 22 minutes in Tuesday’s win over the Clippers because of three first half fouls, the first time since Towns went down that his minutes were limited because of fouls.</p>
<p id="b7r1KH">This is another spot in which he’ll draw a big that either doesn’t move well at all in space, or doesn’t like to leave the paint on defense, in going up against the Jazz center rotation of Walker Kessler and Micah Potter. Reid scored 34 points against Cleveland (including 7/11 from deep) and 25 against the Lakers (5/10 from 3), largely because of how willing he was to let it rip from beyond the arc when his matchup didn’t get out to contest. Reid’s ability to put the ball on the deck is presumably higher on defenses’ scouting report than his 41.% 3-point shot, but his consistency with making the defense pay for giving him space is what has fueled such a successful fifth-year rise to becoming a legit a Sixth Man of the Year candidate. </p>
<p id="iH3fem">On the other end of the floor, Reid is need to hold his own on the glass. The 24-year-old has secured more than five rebounds just once since Towns went down, and is averaging just 5.2 rebounds without Towns this season, an increase of just 0.3 per game despite playing an additional 6.1 minutes per contest. McDaniels has done a good job picking up the slack there (+2.8 rebounds a night without KAT, highest on the team), but Reid has to join him if the Wolves want to close out more stops and find success defensively if Gobert is limited or out. </p>
<p id="kRlhvy">Minnesota allowed just eight second chance points to the Lakers when both Gobert and Anderson did not play last weekend, so the Wolves will be looking to replicate that on Saturday night. </p>
https://www.canishoopus.com/2024/3/16/24103106/wolves-vs-jazz-preview-starting-time-tv-schedule-injury-report-rudy-gobert-anthony-edwardsJack Borman2024-03-16T13:18:56-05:002024-03-16T13:18:56-05:00Timberwolves to Sign Forward T.J. Warren to Second 10-Day Contract
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<img alt="Minnesota Timberwolves v Los Angeles Clippers" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/CRc0KwTt3Br7yFy2o-8Z3NRtJT4=/0x0:4203x2802/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73211995/2081502131.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Harry How/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The former NC State star played in all four of the Wolves’ games since the team signed him on March 6. He holds averages of five points and two rebounds across 16 minutes per game.</p> <p id="3YsjFH">The <a href="https://www.canishoopus.com">Minnesota Timberwolves</a> will sign forward T.J. Warren to a second 10-day contract ahead of Saturday night’s game against the <a href="https://www.slcdunk.com">Utah Jazz</a>, <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1769060385779327319?s=20">according to a report from Shams Charania of <em>The Athletic</em></a><em>. </em></p>
<p id="iZD9Wz">Warren, 30, holds averages of 4.8 points on 47.4 shooting from the floor (14.3% from 3), 2.0 rebounds, 0.8 assists to 0.8 turnovers, and 0.3 steals in 16.0 minutes per game with Minnesota. The 2014 first-round pick played in all four of the Wolves’ games since they first signed him to a 10-day contract back on March 6. </p>
<p id="GF5F72">The Timberwolves were already planning to sign Warren before the <a href="https://www.canishoopus.com/2024/3/7/24093238/wolves-star-karl-anthony-towns-injury-torn-meniscus-in-left-knee-out-indefinitely">news broke that star Karl-Anthony Towns suffered a torn meniscus in his left knee</a>. But the injury to Towns surely unlocked more opportunity for Warren, who had not previously played in the NBA this season after missing extended time over the past three calendar years with consecutive stress fractures in his left foot.</p>
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<img alt="Minnesota Timberwolves v Cleveland Cavaliers" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/SFYQfiOuC855J4VcaKFKBZ0oRq4=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25339735/2061705530.jpg">
<cite>Photo by David Liam Kyle/NBAE via Getty Images</cite>
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<p id="I4Mb7i">The former <a href="https://www.backingthepack.com/">NC State</a> star played a season-high 23 minutes in <a href="https://www.canishoopus.com/timberwolves-scores-results/2024/3/11/24096845/wolves-vs-lakers-final-score-recap-anthony-edwards-lebron-james-anthony-davis-rudy-gobert-fine">Minnesota’s 120-109 loss</a> to the <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com">Los Angeles Lakers</a> on March 10. After a strong start in his first two appearances (a combined 13 points on 6/8 shooting and 1/3 from deep, and five rebounds), Warren shot just 3/11 (0/4 from 3), scoring only six points in his most recent pair of outings, but did add three rebounds, three assists and a steal.</p>
<p id="c2puEE">After sending Troy Brown Jr. to the <a href="https://www.detroitbadboys.com">Detroit Pistons</a> as part of the package to acquire point guard Monte Morris, the Timberwolves had missed having the option to turn to a bigger scoring forward that can stretch the floor. Warren has filled some of that void, but the Wolves are likely hoping the nine-year veteran can improve upon his 14.3% (1/7) mark from beyond the arc.</p>
<div id="coB2wR">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Welcome to the Wolves, T.J. Warren! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RaisedByWolves?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RaisedByWolves</a> <a href="https://t.co/0oD46TEthf">pic.twitter.com/0oD46TEthf</a></p>— Bally Sports North (@BallySportsNOR) <a href="https://twitter.com/BallySportsNOR/status/1765902044592783807?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2024</a>
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<p id="sjN4ht">With Kyle Anderson questionable for tonight’s game with right shoulder pain, and Rudy Gobert seemingly doubtful with a left rib sprain (after not participating in the portion of shootaround open to media on Saturday morning <a href="https://x.com/ChristopherHine/status/1769046858146758881?s=20">according to our friend Chris Hine of the <em>Star Tribune</em></a><em>)</em>, expect Warren to once again be part of the rotation in Utah this weekend. </p>
<p id="Q8JXQ2"></p>
https://www.canishoopus.com/2024/3/16/24103256/timberwolves-sign-tj-warren-to-second-10-day-contractJack Borman2024-03-13T00:33:03-05:002024-03-13T00:33:03-05:00Wolves 118, Clippers 100: Los Angeles Cries Wolf
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<img alt="Minnesota Timberwolves v Los Angeles Clippers" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/quLV6xLtxuW5KdR9XtwpAvfLCqk=/0x80:2886x2004/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73203090/2079835042.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Harry How/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p><em>Minnesota miraculously battles back from a 22-point deficit thanks to 37 points from Anthony Edwards and 51 combined points from Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Mike Conley.</em></p> <p id="KzoiQi">How in the world are you supposed to write gamers for a night like tonight?</p>
<p id="lsqnv7">As a lazy writer like myself would do, I had a three to four paragraph recap ready to go midway through the second quarter. I had even prepared a lovely recipe for <a href="https://thewoksoflife.com/golden-fried-rice/">Golden Fried Rice</a> that I was going to share with you, as that would have certainly been better information for you to receive than the recap of the game. For those of you unaware, it’s a Canis Hoopus tradition to share a food recipe instead of the recap for a blowout loss.</p>
<p id="fic5FQ">The <a href="https://www.canishoopus.com">Minnesota Timberwolves</a> were putting on an absolute stinker of a performance on national television, in a very important game no less. Rudy Gobert’s Defensive Player of the Year campaign was taking a huge blow with the way Minnesota allowed the Los Angeles Clippers to get whatever they wanted. The offense was somehow even worse than the defense, and that’s quite the statement considering how mediocre their 18th ranked offensive rating was. Down 22, most of us were ready to turn our devices off. But then.</p>
<div id="x274Yw"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GSr-VWc_7WQ?rel=0" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;"></iframe></div></div>
<h3 id="3H6x7T">
<strong>The Start </strong>— <em>Playing Possum</em>
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<p id="xwGbx6">If the Wolves were giving the Clippers a false sense of security to start the game, they sure as hell did a convincing job selling it. Los Angeles was hot from beyond the arc, as they poured in six of nine attempts from deep. In comparison, Minnesota was a frigid one of nine. To couple their ice cold touch, they cough the ball up six times leading to 11 Clipper points. Not enough? How about an eight to three free throw advantage for LA? That was enough to dig a 34-21 hole for the visitors. This was about the time I began digging through my recipe book.</p>
<div id="XkQigX">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Paul George goes baseline for the jam <a href="https://t.co/YQ3ta8VNTP">pic.twitter.com/YQ3ta8VNTP</a></p>— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBAonTNT/status/1767738714942308758?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2024</a>
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<p id="JFrsW8">Things only got worse from there. The Clippers were scoring at all four levels in the second quarter. Yes, four. Triples. Mid-range. Paint. Free throws. <strong>Paul George </strong>(22/3/3) looked dominant. Meanwhile, the Wolves reeked of desperation. Down 21, Chris Finch called a timeout and drew up a play. What was the result? A missed step back, contested 15-foot jumper by the coldest player on the roster, <strong>Jaden McDaniels </strong>(0 points; 0/8 FG).</p>
<p id="1FSxsg">Was it time to shut it down? For Kawhi Leonard, it was, as he left the game (and the arena) after the first quarter with back spasms and did not return.</p>
<h3 id="4VvrMV">
<strong>The Meat </strong>— <em>Surprise, Surprise</em>
</h3>
<p id="PSr7bL">With 5:13 remaining in the second quarter, Los Angeles was up 57-35. That’s 22 points, for you non-math majors. <strong>Anthony Edwards </strong>(37/8/4; 51.7% FG) took it upon himself to drive into a paint filled with Clipper defenders. Again. Then a <strong>Nickeil Alexander-Walker </strong>(28 points; 9/10 FG; 5/6 3P) jumper. NAW with a triple. Ant with a triple.</p>
<p id="3xcLOu">Before you knew it, the Wolves went on a 20-2 run and erased the Clipper lead just before the half.</p>
<div id="ugnPDi">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="de" dir="ltr">Nickeil Alexander-Walker corner 3 <a href="https://t.co/NRh3KjFKGv">pic.twitter.com/NRh3KjFKGv</a></p>— Timberwolves Clips (@WolvesClips) <a href="https://twitter.com/WolvesClips/status/1767748656432554175?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2024</a>
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<p id="ayHR7T">The home team may have carried an eight-point lead heading into the locker room, but they certainly must not have felt good. Minnesota responded to giving up 34 points in the first quarter with a 34 point offering of their own in the second, thanks to a 14-point quarter by Edwards. <strong>Rudy Gobert</strong> (8/11/3; 4 stocks) finally flexed his muscle on the defensive end by playing all 12 minutes in his first game back from injury (more on this later). </p>
<p id="Zm0whz">It was time.</p>
<h3 id="D0kXGS">
<strong>The Finish </strong>— <em>Clippers Ba-LA-sted </em>
</h3>
<p id="zj3U87">The weird night continued with Edwards coming out of the tunnel late (again), subbing in at the first whistle. That may have distracted from Finch starting the red hot Alexander-Walker over <strong>Kyle Anderson</strong> (10/5/7; 62.5% FG) in the second half. It felt as though the entire Wolves roster lost any semblance of desperation or fear they had with Leonard now ruled out. The ball began to zip around on offense, generating great looks. Meanwhile, the number one defense in the NBA was fully back, as they forced turnover after turnover coupled with incredible pressure at the point of attack. It took only four and a half minutes for the Wolves to regain the lead at 69-68, going on a combined 34-11 run that bridged the two quarters together. </p>
<div id="C3bihx">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Minnesota Timberwolves great team defense <a href="https://t.co/C3wHkEge5L">pic.twitter.com/C3wHkEge5L</a></p>— Timberwolves Clips (@WolvesClips) <a href="https://twitter.com/WolvesClips/status/1767757099390398782?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2024</a>
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<p id="HpncEi">NAW continued his season-best night by pouring in 10 points on a variety of shots while making a ton of plays on defense. Los Angeles gave one more gasp of air with four consecutive defensive stops and six straight free throws, but Edwards had been fully unleashed. His game tonight could be summed up by this sequence below.</p>
<div id="WypcUw">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ant (30 PTS) gets the steal and score <a href="https://t.co/EgkYikpwyq">pic.twitter.com/EgkYikpwyq</a></p>— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBAonTNT/status/1767761577388777966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2024</a>
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<p id="2h6NXx">A brilliant 29-15 period was thanks to a Wolves defense that held their opponent to 30.8% shooting from the field and nine (!) turnovers. Minnesota never looked back. <strong>Mike Conley </strong>(23/3/3; 5/8 3P) rediscovered his shooting stroke, taking a number of confident pull-up triples in the fourth quarter, despite two of them being reviewed and deemed long 2s. A 22-point Wolves deficit turned into a 20-point Wolves lead. Head Coach Chris Finch’s crew went on a 83-43 extended run from the 5:13 mark of the second quarter to the final buzzer. </p>
<p id="vY2CWf">That’s basketball in year 2024.</p>
<div id="WMDkkB">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Conley buries his 5th triple of the night <a href="https://t.co/uYgFdxzHDX">pic.twitter.com/uYgFdxzHDX</a></p>— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBAonTNT/status/1767765974223044712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2024</a>
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<p id="Qbo7lQ">It would have been a perfect night had it not been something that happened late. Gobert took an awkward fall, landing on Ivica Zubac, and though he walked it off at first, Finch was forced to call a timeout on the next possession to get him out of the game. He walked into the locker room on his own power, rubbing his rib area, and was listed as questionable to return with a “left rib evaluation.” Luckily, according to the <em>Star Tribune’s </em>Chris Hine, Gobert appeared to have <a href="https://twitter.com/ChristopherHine/status/1767781100313612593">avoided any major injury</a>. Rudy will get three days off before a homecoming in Utah on Saturday, so you would imagine Gobert would want to play there if it comes down to pain tolerance.</p>
<div id="M5eLAd">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Rudy Gobert fall right before <a href="https://t.co/2EQPZ96iYR">pic.twitter.com/2EQPZ96iYR</a> <a href="https://t.co/XsTBOs5SFJ">https://t.co/XsTBOs5SFJ</a></p>— Alex (@Dubs408) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dubs408/status/1767765257009910017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2024</a>
</blockquote>
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<p id="KSTADM"><strong>Naz Reid </strong>also had a little bit of a scare early, landing awkwardly on a put-back and injuring his ankle in the first quarter. He limped off into the locker room as well, but reentered shortly afterwards. That may have been why had a quiet night though.</p>
<p id="sn2lbf">That said, let’s allow the time and space to celebrate an astounding win. Perhaps one of the best of the season. Ant took center stage with all eyes on him and used the postgame interview opportunity to put the league on notice.</p>
<div id="Xw7Lle">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">*drops mic* <a href="https://t.co/iBm7rtKj2b">pic.twitter.com/iBm7rtKj2b</a></p>— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) <a href="https://twitter.com/Timberwolves/status/1767775105789358384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2024</a>
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<p id="etYQIu">“<em>Just a bunch of mismatches.</em>” - Anthony Edwards, 2024.</p>
<p id="oTQHDr">He continued by sharing that this was a statement game, and give a statement they did. With the victory, Minnesota preserved their spot among the top three in the West and sit just 0.5 games behind the number one and two seeds. They also avoid a three game losing streak, remaining as one of only three teams to achieve that.</p>
<p id="9W1lZs">Let’s dance.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="MsTmrJ">
<h3 id="1Lm7Pz"><strong>Game Highlights</strong></h3>
<div id="Wh39vU"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KoXgzHMzhfk?rel=0" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;"></iframe></div></div>
<h3 id="dwYZFX"><strong>Lead Tracker</strong></h3>
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<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/YDPNzw0T0eFv9PBO4__5tbC2lBc=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25333493/gametracker312.png">
<cite><em>NBA Courtside</em></cite>
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<h3 id="knU2Jd"><strong>Canis Hoopus Comment of the Night</strong></h3>
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<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/LdbwcIzX97SnzHVnd3_xl-ioUxY=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25333495/cotn3.12.png">
<figcaption><em>mattsteg and Conan the Barbarian declares war</em></figcaption>
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<h3 id="5NhcXe"><strong>What’s Next</strong></h3>
<p id="fnsGqk">The Wolves will hangout in Los Angeles till Friday before hopping on a two hour flight to Salt Lake City. They take on the <a href="https://www.slcdunk.com">Utah Jazz</a> on <strong>Saturday, March 16</strong> at <strong>8:30pm CT </strong>for the first of a two-game set. The Jazz are currently 12th in the Western Conference standings and have lost 10 of their last 12 games. Both times the Wolves faced them this season, they’ve won by double digits. Fans can watch the game on Bally Sports North Extra.</p>
https://www.canishoopus.com/timberwolves-scores-results/2024/3/13/24096853/wolves-vs-clippers-final-score-recap-anthony-edwards-paul-george-kawhi-leonard-rudy-gobert-injuryLeo Sun2024-03-12T19:32:17-05:002024-03-12T19:32:17-05:00Game Preview #66: Wolves at Clippers
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<img alt="Minnesota Timberwolves v Los Angeles Lakers" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/fx4R3pBZjPj62MRK_OrtZpOKAjE=/0x0:4940x3293/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73199850/2068294991.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Timberwolves stay in LA to take on the Clippers in a pivotal Western Conference showdown with massive playoff implications</p> <p id="oTgCvG">Anthony Edwards and the <a href="https://www.canishoopus.com">Minnesota Timberwolves</a> return to Crypto.com Arena on Tuesday night to face the Los Angeles Clippers in the two teams’ final matchup of the 2023-24 season. </p>
<p id="GbRA7N">After missing the matchup against the <a href="https://www.brewhoop.com">Milwaukee Bucks</a> on Sunday, Kawhi Leonard and Paul George were listed as questionable for this heavyweight bout between two of the Western Conference’s best, but will start. The Wolves are looking to avoid their longest losing streak of the season (three games).</p>
<p id="Tc1XrQ">Like the Clippers, the Wolves also were shorthanded in their matchup on Sunday, <a href="https://www.canishoopus.com/timberwolves-scores-results/2024/3/11/24096845/wolves-vs-lakers-final-score-recap-anthony-edwards-lebron-james-anthony-davis-rudy-gobert-fine">missing four of their usual nine rotation players in a 120-109 loss</a> to the <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com">Los Angeles Lakers</a>. </p>
<p id="KbBNBj">The injury-riddled Timberwolves fought valiantly to stick with the Lakers for three quarters, but Anthony Davis and LeBron James proved to be too much to handle for a Minnesota squad down two All-Stars.</p>
<p id="eYPbej">The Timberwolves have a 2-1 record this year against the Clippers, winning the first two matchups and losing the most recent one on <a href="https://www.canishoopus.com/timberwolves-scores-results/2024/3/3/24089435/wolves-vs-clippers-final-score-recap-anthony-edwards-kawhi-leonard-rudy-gobert-paul-george">March 3, 89-88, in a defensive slugfest</a>. This will also be the first time the two teams have matched up without KAT in the lineup this season, which could shake up the matchups across the board for both teams. </p>
<p id="e5SslN">After this game, the Wolves have three days off before traveling to Salt Lake City for a two-game series against the <a href="https://www.slcdunk.com">Utah Jazz</a>.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="1nWIRA">
<h2 id="00pYWK"><strong>Game Info</strong></h2>
<ul>
<li id="WY5fuZ">Who: Minnesota Timberwolves (44-21) at Los Angeles Clippers (41-22)</li>
<li id="0qZFLu">When: Tuesday, March 12 at 9:00 PM CT</li>
<li id="rDyWjn">Where: Crypto.com Arena – Los Angeles, CA</li>
<li id="3q3QNg">TV: TNT (Brian Anderson, Reggie Miller and Stephanie Ready)</li>
<li id="sR38wF">Radio: Wolves App, iHeart Radio, KFAN 100.3 FM</li>
<li id="Fm0OvI">Line: Wolves +7.5 | Total: 215 (courtesy of <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/teams/basketball/nba/minnesota-timberwolves--odds">DraftKings Sportsbook</a>)</li>
</ul>
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<h2 id="gGkuMp"><strong>Injury Report</strong></h2>
<p id="opdfJP">Updated as of Tuesday, March 12 at 7:30 PM CT</p>
<h3 id="NnJEwa"><strong>Minnesota</strong></h3>
<p id="eBKSNw">AVAILABLE:</p>
<ul>
<li id="2COKQV">Kyle Anderson (right shoulder pain)</li>
<li id="9zVbcL">Anthony Edwards (left ankle soreness)</li>
<li id="bDr2vP">Rudy Gobert (right hamstring tightness)</li>
</ul>
<p id="OtYMDX">OUT:</p>
<ul>
<li id="qMXoHN">Jaylen Clark (right achilles tendon rupture rehab)</li>
<li id="dZuCbt">Monte Morris (left hamstring soreness)</li>
<li id="i2e1PQ">Karl-Anthony Towns (torn left meniscus)</li>
</ul>
<h3 id="k5oV7i"><strong>Los Angeles</strong></h3>
<p id="hTLUZI">AVAILABLE:</p>
<ul>
<li id="1htq7Z">Kawhi Leonard (left groin soreness)</li>
<li id="c7ia83">Paul George (left knee soreness)</li>
</ul>
<p id="X1TB4h">OUT:</p>
<ul><li id="v5qvZ3">Russell Westbrook (Fractured Left Hand)</li></ul>
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<h2 id="olWu1G"><strong>What to Watch For</strong></h2>
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<img alt="Minnesota Timberwolves v Los Angeles Lakers" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/wX4t9kdxLH1vyd6PmK7YP3u8kLI=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25331078/2066807696.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Tyler Ross/NBAE via Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<h3 id="c4Sn2H"><strong>Two Words. Naz Reid.</strong></h3>
<p id="LEHdUD">Naz Reid has been a revelation for an ailing Timberwolves team during the road trip so far. Because Karl-Anthony Towns has been sidelined, Big Jelly has gotten an expanded role and more minutes. Losing a player of the caliber of Towns has been difficult for this Wolves team as they have had to change so much with him out of the lineup. Even despite these struggles for the team, Reid has eased that transition and taken full advantage of this opportunity.</p>
<p id="NDXUgt">Despite the losses in the last couple of games, Naz has averaged 29.5 points, 5 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 3.0 blocks a game while also being a red hot 12/21 from beyond the arc. Timberwolves fans always knew that there was more untapped potential with the <a href="https://www.andthevalleyshook.com">LSU</a> product but he has very rarely gotten the opportunity to fully spread his wings because of the two bigs ahead of him in the rotation. If there is any silver lining to the KAT injury, Reid has been it. </p>
<div id="6yhXaT">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Naz Reid Appreciation Post:<br><br>Athletic, shooting 42% from 3, and a strong candidate for 6MOY <br> <a href="https://t.co/NPs5Ih6fJo">pic.twitter.com/NPs5Ih6fJo</a></p>— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheDunkCentral/status/1767273908770640046?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2024</a>
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<p id="sMSera">Attempting to replace a 22 points per game scorer at any time is not an easy feat but having someone like Naz be able to step up in this role and help cover the cracks left by Towns’ absence has and will continue to be critical to the Wolves success during the stretch run. Anthony Edwards needs help on the offensive side of the ball as defenses can key on to him without Towns in the lineup in order to get the ball out of his hands and force the young guard to make mistakes. Not only does Naz help ease that pressure, but he also assists in stretching the floor with his shooting ability and clearing the lane to create room for Edwards to operate in (similar to Towns’ impact). The three-year, $42 million deal that Reid signed last summer is starting to look better and better as the season progresses.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Minnesota Timberwolves v Los Angeles Lakers" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/kW_Lki1s6uXzvRx0mf6iBIQYMz0=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25331190/2068294892.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<h3 id="SfyfrA"><strong>Being Forced to Play Smaller</strong></h3>
<p id="XcehGr">Since the Wolves acquired Rudy Gobert via trade, many of their moves have been made with their big identity in mind. With Towns now out for the foreseeable future, there has been a slight pivot in that identity that is still being created as we speak. When you spend the majority of the season playing one way, it can be tough to switch that in an instant. Because of the changes in the rotation that have had to happen with Towns being out, the Wolves have had to shift their play style to match their personnel.</p>
<p id="cvmDbj">The history between the Clippers and Rudy Gobert is one that is tied directly to this identity shift as Head Coach Chris Finch tinkers with the rotation to best make up for the fact that Towns is not a part of it. Many times this season against the Timberwolves, the Clippers have attempted to go small in order to punish the slower footed frontcourt with speed and shooting. The work that this L.A. team, and the some of its current roster, did in the past created the “Gobert can’t defend in space” narrative since those 2021 playoffs. While Rudy and the Wolves have done a good job in their matchups this season mitigating that narrative, this game will be different because of that personnel.</p>
<div id="qwG0kV">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Chris Finch when asked about replacing Karl-Anthony Towns' role and production:<br><br>"I've never subscribed the try to replace like for like, and with a guy of Karl's caliber, certainly it's really hard to do. What I love about our team is we have a multitude of options. We can go a…</p>— Dane Moore (@DaneMooreNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/DaneMooreNBA/status/1765875841706140072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2024</a>
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<p id="UTTTGq">With Kyle Anderson starting (if he is healthy) and his strong perimeter defense, you assume that he will take Kawhi Leonard given that he spent a lot of time on Leonard in the first three matchups. When KAT started, Finch and Co. hid him on Terrance Mann. If Anderson takes Kawhi, it would put Ant back on Paul George, a matchup Edwards has dominated this season. Playing the 2020 No. 1 overall pick off the ball more which could be good to conserve energy, but he locks in even more when taking on those matchups against the great players in the NBA. </p>
<p id="QZAVpa">To get an idea of how the Wolves will look to play in this game, take a look back at their gameplan from a matchup with the Kings in Sacramento on December 23. KAT did not play in that game and they handled the Kings en route to a 12-point victory. Edwards put on a show of scoring and playmaking with 34 points and 10 assists to go along with Gobert delivering a dominant 21-point, 17-rebound effort. Jaden McDaniels was the x-factor in that game, as he had 20 points. Replicating that great game from Jaden will be key if the Wolves want to take down the Clippers in this matchup.</p>
<p id="aNMEjJ">Minnesota was able to make up for the talent discrepancy with Towns out by sticking to their matchups on the perimeter. Sacramento shot 8/33 from downtown (24.2%). Limiting the long ball and chasing shooters with their smaller lineup will be key in this matchup against a Clippers team that ranks second in the NBA in 3-point percentage. The Clippers and the Kings both attempt to spread your defense out with shooting and so by taking some notes from that matchup, the Timberwolves can use that experience to game plan for Tuesday night.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Minnesota Timberwolves v Los Angeles Lakers" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/bu0SJtGSECyNLxJm4S5IhYJbNzQ=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25331079/2068294348.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<h3 id="k5jLFy"><strong>Playoff Implications</strong></h3>
<p id="5VY9Ks">As things sit right now, the Wolves are two games up on the Clippers for the No. 3 seed in the West. Each of the top four teams are all within 3.5 games of each other, setting the scene for a nail-biter finish for all these squads near the top.</p>
<p id="LHTj08">Head-to-head matchups are the first tiebreaker for seeding which makes this game even more important as we wait to see how the Western Conference shakes out. The Wolves are up 2-1 in the season series against the Clippers, so, if they were to win on Tuesday night, they would lock up the tiebreaker (winning the season series 3-1) if Minnesota and L.A. had the same record at the end of the season.</p>
<p id="pD8jhJ">The next tiebreaker for seeding is Division Winner. This means that if the Clippers win tomorrow (tying the season series between the two teams at 2-2) they would hold the tiebreaker over the Timberwolves on account of them leading (and most likely winning) the Pacific Division.</p>
<div id="fDeQ7w">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">NBA Western Conference standings <br><br>OKC soars to the top, Pelicans claim 5th, and Lakers chase from the 9th spot! <br><br>Check the pulse of the league on the NBA App: <a href="https://t.co/B0WqMYTOUH">https://t.co/B0WqMYTOUH</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBAAfrica?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBAAfrica</a> <a href="https://t.co/fBmb1hutNE">pic.twitter.com/fBmb1hutNE</a></p>— NBA Africa (@NBA_Africa) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA_Africa/status/1767123791883252098?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2024</a>
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<p id="6LZTz3">Minnesota has Oklahoma City and Denver ahead of them in the Northwest Division, so if either of those teams finish above them and the Clippers hold off the Phoenix Suns to win their division (4.5 games up as of Monday), then L.A. would hold the tiebreaker over Minnesota. </p>
<p id="8NQiv4">The third tiebreaker is Conference Record, where Minnesota has the advantage with a 30-11 record while the Clippers are at 25-16. This means there still is a chance that Minnesota could hold the tiebreaker if Phoenix overtook L.A. in the standings, but 4.5 games is tough to make up when there is so little time left in the season.</p>
<p id="7vCJE4">All of this adds extra juice to an already marquee matchup that is taking place between two teams jockeying for playoff position.</p>
<p id="AxMfUO"></p>
https://www.canishoopus.com/2024/3/11/24097920/wolves-vs-clippers-preview-starting-time-tv-schedule-injury-report-anthony-edwards-kawhi-leonardBenny Hughes2024-03-12T17:53:45-05:002024-03-12T17:53:45-05:00What Should Lynx Fans Know About Ex-Sky Standouts Courtney Williams and Alanna Smith?
<figure>
<img alt="Chicago Sky v Las Vegas Aces - Game One" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/EENI8LTzUmzEX3HXzGWfVhasWs0=/1300x275:3699x1874/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73202559/1675253356.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Stephen PridGeon-Garner of CHGO Sky joined our Jack Borman for a Q&A about the two headlining signings the Minnesota Lynx made during 2024 WNBA Free Agency.</p> <p id="mjBnOD">The Minnesota Lynx didn’t waste any time upgrading their roster during 2024 <a href="https://www.swishappeal.com">WNBA</a> Free Agency last month. </p>
<p id="KJ6fSW">Lynx General Manager Clare Duwelius and Head Coach / President of Basketball Operations Cheryl Reeve moved quickly to sign <a href="https://www.canishoopus.com/2024/1/31/24057546/wnba-free-agency-2024-guard-courtney-williams-minnesota-lynx-two-year-deal-alanna-smith-sky">point guard Courtney Williams</a> and <a href="https://www.canishoopus.com/2024/1/26/24052074/wnba-free-agency-2024-forward-alanna-smith-to-sign-with-minnesota-lynx-cheryl-reeve-napheesa-collier">versatile forward Alanna Smith</a>, who were each introduced during a joint press conference held over Zoom on Monday.</p>
<div id="oUFInv">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">‘Lan and Court sticking together in Minny. <a href="https://t.co/fm1o6GHy51">pic.twitter.com/fm1o6GHy51</a></p>— Minnesota Lynx (@minnesotalynx) <a href="https://twitter.com/minnesotalynx/status/1767572398256034124?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2024</a>
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<p id="cPfqgL">Given that both players stood out as members of the Chicago Sky last season, we figured it would only be right to learn about Williams and Smith from Stephen PridGeon-Garner of CHGO Sky — one of the sharpest basketball minds covering the Sky and the WNBA at-large — who joined us for a Q&A. </p>
<p id="DUfq48">A huge thanks to Stephen for lending his expertise and terrific work to us for this one. You can find his <a href="https://allchgo.com/author/sgarner03/">written work for CHGO Sky here</a> and podcasts for CHGO Sky here (click on the name of the service of your choice): <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1CMG80mMCyKWJUvI6by0gq?utm_medium=share&utm_source=linktree">Spotify</a> | <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1CMG80mMCyKWJUvI6by0gq?utm_medium=share&utm_source=linktree">Apple Podcasts</a>. </p>
<p id="MmJNFx">NBA fans can read his written work covering the <a href="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com">Phoenix Suns</a> at our brother site, <a href="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/authors/stephen-pridgeon-garner">Bright Side of the Sun</a>, and listen to him on the PHNX Suns podcast here: <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/0THxSrdpgLIZ5xWrYPD7wk?utm_medium=share&utm_source=linktree">Spotify</a> | <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1207682052?app=podcast&at=1000lHKX&ct=linktree_http&itscg=30200&itsct=lt_p&ls=1&mt=2">Apple Podcasts</a>.</p>
<h4 id="P3J8f9">This conversation has been very lightly edited for formatting.</h4>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="Zpc7hv">
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<img alt="Minnesota Lynx fall to the Chicago Sky 84-72 in a preseason WNBA in Canada" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/yxBCyzUoSLO5YW0PPX2xvP5FR8Y=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25332972/1254687654.jpg">
<cite>Steve Russell/Toronto Star via Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="iPbHJE"><em><strong>Jack Borman:</strong></em><em> Let’s start with Courtney Williams. The Lynx didn’t have anyone outside of Napheesa Collier and Kayla McBride who could consistently create their own shot last season. How does Williams project to help the Lynx in that department in 2024?</em></p>
<p id="LGMIBR"><strong>Stephen PridGeon-Garner</strong>: Courtney directly — and very well — impacts this dynamic of the Lynx. The context of the team as well as opportunity the Lynx provide both greatly fit her game, and vice versa. She brings championship-level experience, having a breadth of experience getting to that stage. She has the ability to get her own in a multitude of offensive contexts, and that is a dynamic of her game that grew in volume last season.</p>
<p id="tn6FcJ">Williams has always self-created, from a standstill, without a pick, and off the bounce. Where things took a turn for the better with her overall attack was being involved in a Chicago Sky attack that was the heaviest in pick-and-roll play. </p>
<p id="IgWKGl">Chicago had 1,385 pick-and-roll possessions last season (most in the WNBA), 145 more than the next highest team. That was a <em><strong>heavy</strong></em> feature of Williams in a lead guard role. She was responsible for 469 of those possessions for the Sky, and, of the 14 players with 300+ possessions compiled in pick-and-roll, her points per possession mark of 0.932 ranked fifth, per Synergy Sports. The effective field goal percentage stemming from her initiating this action — for herself or for teammates in this context — ranked third, behind only Atlanta Dream star Allisha Gray and New York Liberty floor general Courtney Vandersloot. </p>
<p id="o0KZtn">However, Gray and Vandersloot played in offensive systems that were very different from that of the Sky. Additionally, the points per shot mark stemming from Williams’ pick-and-roll possessions was also third, behind those two, at 1.05. The Sky scored on 42.6% of her pick-and-roll possessions, which ranks fourth of the aforementioned 14 high-possession-count guards in pick-and-roll.</p>
<p id="an28m1">She’ll make life easier on the likes of Collier, Diamond Miller, Dorka Juhász, and even Natisha Hiedeman — who, when she was last paired with Williams, helped lead the Connecticut Sun to the WNBA Finals in 2022 (keep in mind that synergy between those two, and how Williams eases the burdens for Hiedeman).</p>
<p id="bISfDe">Pick-and-roll in an emptied corner, emptied side, or spread context will be a stress for defenses in coverage, as Williams has elite-level patience and all the savviness to control the defenders directly involved in action, as well as the backside defenders — playing directly to generating high shot quality at nauseam. </p>
<p id="YAVkFE">The context of the Lynx spacing, with the likes of Collier, Hiedeman, and Smith (whom Williams had 46 assists to, the 20th-most for any player pairing — including 12 for 3-pointers).</p>
<h5 id="76PJkf">(Editor’s Note: If you are reading this on Apple News, please <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/e/23863011">click here</a> so you can view embedded videos important to the analysis, and enjoy the best overall reading experience.)</h5>
<div id="oPon7D"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xdo1MeaMjdM?rel=0" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="k7iktS">Williams’ passing catalog is not confined to a box, as she can make the textbook ones with sharpness, while also displaying a liberating ability to freelance and manipulate passing angles that only an elite group of players can feel, but also be skilled enough to deliver. Pocket passes, skips, behind the back, no-looks, hit-ahead, post-entries, hitting players in the shooter’s pocket in the air or off the bounce — there’s no pass she can’t make, and her vision and creativity match that.</p>
<p id="BIEcN5">She’ll also up the tempo at which the Lynx play at, which Miller especially will benefit from. The Sky had an offense that was on par with the league’s fourth-best while she was on the floor, with a rating of 103, 2.52 points per 100 possessions better than when she rested. Williams will ease the self-creation burden from the likes of Collier and Miller while helping them enjoy more efficient catches and opportunities-galore to score.</p>
<p id="kRTxds">The issues that plagued them in their round one series with Connecticut have been solved in not just a piece that can score, but one that can get a reaction out of a defense, while doubling as a player that has to be accounted for off-ball as well.</p>
<aside id="CrRp8R"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"‘We’re Gonna Be a Problem’ — Courtney Williams Ready to Help Lynx Take the Next Step","url":"https://www.canishoopus.com/2024/3/5/24087119/minnesota-lynx-courtney-williams-wnba-free-agency-2024-napheesa-collier-kayla-mcbride-next-step"}]}'></div></aside><p id="8Fw7EH"><em><strong>JB: </strong></em><em>Williams shot a career-high 44.3% from deep last season, and an incredible 50.6% on catch-and-shoot 3-pointers, after shooting 33.8% in 2022. Which mark do you think is more representative of Williams’ shooting ability, and what might her shooting unlock for the Lynx?</em></p>
<p id="clqadW"><strong>SPG: </strong>A perfect transition from where I left off with the last answer, this is a great question. Williams’ career prior to her stint with the Sky doesn’t suggest she’s that prolific of a shooter. However, I do feel her percentages reside somewhere in between where she was before her Sky-stint, and where she is coming out of that.</p>
<p id="wyoPLI">The Sky’s offensive context was a unique one in regards to spacing, so for her to have shot so well off the catch truly bodes well for the now-evolved spacing in the Lynx offense. Players like Miller, Hiedeman, and especially Collier will benefit from Williams being spaced a pass away, or on the second side, as help persists. We’ve spoken plenty about her abilities of the bounce, but with the looks Collier and Miller should be able to generate for her, she should receive high shot quality looks and, because of the cleanliness of the looks to come, I would not be surprised in the slightest if she knocked down shots from deep at a rate in the realm of last season.</p>
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<img alt="Minnesota Lynx v Chicago Sky" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/bYXb-3RJvwCUp2m-J8vvjj1v19A=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25332975/1653677004.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="s5mFTV"><em><strong>JB:</strong></em><em> Shifting to Alanna Smith, fans may not be wowed looking at her simple stat averages from 2023. But we both know her impact goes well beyond the box score. What is the most important thing Smith will bring to Minnesota that will make fans appreciate her game?</em></p>
<p id="W0Z9za"><strong>SPG: </strong>It’s honestly hard to say just one thing about all that she brings to the table. I’d say her toughness and stubborn competitive edge will make her a fan favorite with a swiftness.</p>
<p id="3TXtPw">Smith is often the first to the floor; a hard-nosed competitor on the glass, she has the positional versatility that lends itself to her executing effectively in multiple schemes — to mix it up with centers, while also guarding down and able to slide with perimeter players on switches — with activity.</p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Got to speak with Coach Vatansever postgame yesterday on Alanna Smith <br><br>Asked about her rotational play defensively, + how her connecting things on that end of the floor keeps their shell intact : <a href="https://t.co/5fDMjoVo8w">pic.twitter.com/5fDMjoVo8w</a></p>— Stephen PridGeon ☯️ (@StayTrueSDot3) <a href="https://twitter.com/StayTrueSDot3/status/1694490110870409232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2023</a>
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<p id="3TpDNn">Ex-Sky Interim Head Coach Emre Vatansever spoke with me last season about Alanna’s ability to tag the roller and defend rotationally, while center Elizabeth Williams was active at the level of the screen.</p>
<p id="LAvIep">Smith’s athleticism and anticipatory skills in activity add to her grit. She finished last season with 99 stocks (50 blocks, 49 steals), averaging 1.3 blocks and 1.3 steals per game. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Rather than tossing the ones that weren't included, let's put em to good use!<br><br>An Appreciating Alanna thread ⤵️ <a href="https://t.co/YqK75913XT">https://t.co/YqK75913XT</a></p>— Stephen PridGeon ☯️ (@StayTrueSDot3) <a href="https://twitter.com/StayTrueSDot3/status/1677364935297310745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a>
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<p id="gnjCH6">Her grit, and commitment to bringing that to the table regardless of statistical efficiency, is <a href="https://allchgo.com/appreciating-what-alanna-smith-brings-to-the-chicago-sky/">conducive to a competitive and winning environment</a>, and honestly is what ultimately enabled her to put a stranglehold of sorts on the starting forward position following the season-long absence of Isabelle Harrison, as well as an early ankle injury to then-starter Morgan Bertsch. </p>
<p id="GKdkfk">She raises the level of activity for the group on the floor as a form of leadership.</p>
<aside id="dAgmDO"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"What Will Free Agency Addition Alanna Smith Bring to the Lynx?","url":"https://www.canishoopus.com/2024/1/29/24052405/2024-wnba-free-agency-alanna-smith-signs-minnesota-lynx-film-room"}]}'></div></aside><p id="1ucYeX"><strong>JB: </strong>Smith played 775 minutes with Elizabeth Williams (+3.52 NET, <a href="https://www.pbpstats.com/wowy-combos/wnba?TeamId=1611661329&Season=2023&SeasonType=Regular%2BSeason&PlayerIds=1629501,204322">per PBP Stats</a>) and just 232 minutes without her (-9.72 NET). Why do you think the impact contrast is that stark? Do you think it makes more sense to start Dorka Juhász at center, with Smith at the 4 and Collier sliding down to the 3?</p>
<p id="Js6kiY"><strong>SPG: </strong>Rim protection. The Sky in general were -3.71 points per 100 possessions worse when Williams rested, and it was an ongoing battle finding ways to be at least neutral defensively while she rested, oftentimes upping the aggression on the perimeter to make life difficult for opponents, or went to “15” — switching 1-through-5.</p>
<p id="JhUccw">That number isn’t indicative of Smith’s defensive abilities, but does show the value having multiple rim protectors provides in optimizing her defensive impact.</p>
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<p id="Lr0TOQ"><strong>JB: </strong><a href="https://www.canishoopus.com/2024/1/29/24052405/2024-wnba-free-agency-alanna-smith-signs-minnesota-lynx-film-room">When I poured over hours of film on Smith for an article</a> after the announcement she was coming to the Lynx, her chemistry with Courtney was evident. What do you like most about the connection that duo has, and what element do you think they’ll bring that the Lynx lacked in 2023?</p>
<p id="tG2Liz"><strong>Stephen: </strong>Indeed they do have a notable synergy. Courtney’s abilities in pick-and-roll manipulation is dominant.</p>
<p id="1KPsEP">Complementary, however, is Alanna’s abilities in versatility to slip, ghost, pop, roll, or play the short-roll. From there, she’s able to navigate off feel, most comfortable doing so with her left hand.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Alanna Smith is at 1.13 PPP via drives — at 75% from the field<br><br>Specifically to her left (!) — which I've made note of multiple times through her 14 games — she's at 1.17 PPP on 83.3 from the field<br><br>Notice how also on these 3, she's popping off a pick, or spacing in some capacity <a href="https://t.co/MIW0KntNlf">https://t.co/MIW0KntNlf</a> <a href="https://t.co/AteiL3hjOn">pic.twitter.com/AteiL3hjOn</a></p>— Stephen PridGeon ☯️ (@StayTrueSDot3) <a href="https://twitter.com/StayTrueSDot3/status/1673729006129102849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 27, 2023</a>
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<p id="52VvmN">That versatile of a screener is something defenses have to account for, and is a microcosm of how dynamic Williams will be with Collier, as mentioned above — especially with how the Lynx should be able to manipulate space to create more organic 2v2 scenarios.</p>
<p id="XOPD9D"><strong>JB: </strong>Prior to free agency began, where did the Lynx land for you in terms of best fits for Courtney and Alanna? </p>
<p id="s0O4Tw">Now that the Lynx have...</p>
<ul>
<li id="SrhFw2"><a href="https://www.canishoopus.com/2024/1/31/24052750/wnba-free-agency-2024-bridget-carleton-re-sign-minnesota-lynx-two-year-deal-cheryl-reeve-canada">Re-signed Bridget Carleton</a></li>
<li id="przVvi"><a href="https://www.canishoopus.com/2024/1/31/24057065/wnba-trade-lynx-acquire-natisha-hiedeman-tiffany-mitchell-second-round-pick-sun">Traded Tiffany Mitchell and a second-round pick for Natisha Hiedeman</a></li>
<li id="p8pdBz">Let guards <a href="https://www.canishoopus.com/2024/2/1/24058120/wnba-free-agency-2024-guard-lindsay-allen-to-sign-with-chicago-sky-leave-minnesota-lynx">Lindsay Allen</a> and <a href="https://www.canishoopus.com/2024/2/1/24058057/wnba-free-agency-2024-rachel-banham-sign-connecticut-sun-leave-minnesota-lynx">Rachel Banham</a> sign elsewhere in free agency</li>
<li id="TvuP9g"><a href="https://www.canishoopus.com/2024/1/31/24057484/minnesota-lynx-center-jess-shepard-to-miss-2024-season-umana-reyer-venezia-wnba-prioritization">Won’t have Jess Shepard because of overseas commitments</a></li>
<li id="g3GpW0"><a href="https://www.canishoopus.com/2024/2/3/24059454/wnba-free-agency-2024-cecilia-zandalasini-minnesota-lynx-virtus-segafredo-bologna-italy">Reportedly agreed to bring back Italian shooter Cecilia Zandalasini</a></li>
</ul>
<p id="codjxP">...do you like the fit better or worse?</p>
<p id="n9BoEw"><strong>SPG: </strong>The Lynx were a team that made all the sense in the world to me for the services of Courtney Williams prior to free agency, as well as Skylar Diggins-Smith, Natasha Cloud, and Jordin Canada.</p>
<p id="CjBfdb">The Lynx needed a bit more dynamic play from the point guard position, more downhill play and spacing in particular, and they get that plus the intangibles that come with Williams at the helm.</p>
<p id="N8aJa9">I wasn’t sure about their need for Smith prior to the Shepard news. In light of it, however, the signing was sensical — Smith is a Reeve-type frontcourt piece for sure. Versatility, toughness, athleticism, it’s all there.</p>
<p id="zcv7of">With the context of other additions made to the Lynx roster, I feel that they will surprise those that are only watching the high-end moves made heading into the season. The Lynx will end someone’s anticipated deep run, early, with potential to do even more damage.</p>
<p id="lhxDD9">Now that the Lynx have addressed the much discussed spacing issues, their scoring numbers should go up. The unlocked driving lanes for Miller, Williams, and Hiedeman, and added space for Collier to operate in, should all improve both the floor and the ceiling for this team headed into 2024. Minnesota be in the thick of things, and, barring a hot start, could net themselves a top-3 slot in the standings headed into the playoffs.</p>
<p id="8EYltC">I think very highly of this Lynx team.</p>
<p id="FX9DbI"></p>
https://www.canishoopus.com/2024/3/12/24098970/minnesota-lynx-courtney-williams-alanna-smith-2024-wnba-free-agency-chicago-skyJack Borman