Game Preview: Timberwolves Vs. Knicks

Sunday night’s game against the Giannis-less Bucks was a prime example of how easy it is for the Timberwolves to fall into a trap game.

Despite all the red flags, they still managed to take a half-hearted approach into the matchup, resulting in a near loss.

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The first half of the game was underwhelming at best. There was sloppy execution, a lackluster defensive effort, and the team struggled with missed shots, particularly from beyond the arc.

The Bucks, despite missing their star player, Giannis Antetokounmpo, were able to build a solid double-digit lead, taking advantage of the Timberwolves’ indifference.

The issue wasn’t about talent or mismatches; it was all about focus and effort. Minnesota seemed content to let the game play itself out and took a relaxed approach, assuming they’d get their act together later.

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To their credit, the Wolves did show some fight in the second half, particularly during a 20-0 run that erased a 15-point deficit.

But just as quickly as they took control, they lost it again by relaxing and failing to maintain their momentum.

Enter Terrence Shannon Jr., whose timely three-pointers in the fourth quarter revived the Wolves’ chances. They regained the lead, but it wasn’t smooth sailing from there. With the game on the line and less than a minute remaining, the Wolves could have easily lost.

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But they managed to hold on, securing a three-point win. While technically a success, the victory left much to be desired in terms of satisfaction and maturity.

Looking Ahead: A Challenging Stretch For The Timberwolves

After surviving the Bucks trap game, the Timberwolves now face a daunting stretch of games.

The New York Knicks will visit Target Center on Tuesday before the Wolves head to Denver to face Nikola Jokić and the Nuggets on Christmas night.

The next four games will be a real test for Minnesota, as they take on some of the best teams in the NBA.

They have passed tests against the Thunder and the Bucks, but this next stretch will be crucial for their playoff aspirations.

Keys To The Game:

1. Bring the Size — and Actually Use It
   The Knicks have a strong frontcourt, and they’re one of the few teams that can match the Timberwolves’ size. Karl-Anthony Towns will be key to stretching the floor and creating mismatches, while Mitchell Robinson remains a force in the paint. The Wolves must rely on Rudy Gobert to control the boards and protect the rim. It’s a battle in the trenches, and whichever team plays with more intensity inside will have the edge.
2. Shoot It Like You Mean It — For All Four Quarters
   Minnesota’s three-point shooting has been erratic. While they’ve had some hot streaks, they’ve also seen some cold shooting nights. Against the Knicks, they can’t afford another slow start from deep. It’s about trusting the pass, moving the ball, and generating clean looks. Rushing shots and playing out of rhythm won’t work.
3. Win the Foul Game Before It Wins You
   Jalen Brunson is excellent at drawing fouls and will be a key player for the Knicks. If the Wolves get sloppy with their perimeter defense, they risk sending Brunson to the free-throw line too often. Minnesota needs to play solid defense without reaching or gambling. Keeping the Knicks out of the bonus will prevent them from gaining an easy advantage.
4. This is an Anthony Edwards Game
   Against the Bucks, Anthony Edwards didn’t make much of an impact early on, and the Timberwolves felt his absence. This game, however, is a huge opportunity for Edwards to step up. He needs to set the tone physically, attack the basket, and be aggressive. If he plays focused and assertively, the Wolves will have a much better chance at taking down a legitimate contender like the Knicks.

The Bigger Picture: A Defining Stretch Ahead

The Timberwolves’ victory over the Bucks was far from impressive, but they got the job done. Now, the Wolves are facing a critical stretch that could define their season.

A win against the Knicks would set the tone for what’s to come, especially with the Nuggets and other tough opponents on the horizon.

The Timberwolves need to show that they can play consistently, execute well, and be mentally sharp for an entire game. They’ve proven they can win, but can they do it with the necessary intensity and focus?

As the team heads into the next few games, the focus will be on pride and proving themselves as a true playoff contender.

The next few days will test whether they’re ready for the big stage or if they’ll continue to rely on late-game heroics to cover up earlier mistakes.

The Timberwolves are heading into a crucial stretch of games, and their performance against the Knicks will be a defining moment.

If they bring the effort, focus, and consistency needed, they could come out of this stretch as a serious contender in the West.

But if they repeat the mistakes made against the Bucks, this holiday stretch could turn into a nightmare.

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