MIAMI — In a remarkable turnaround, the Minnesota Timberwolves rallied from a significant halftime deficit to defeat the Miami Heat 112-108 on Monday night, tying them with Boston for the NBA’s best record at 20-5. This victory, marked by a strong defensive showing in the second half, highlights Minnesota’s resilience and defensive prowess.
The Timberwolves, facing their second-biggest midgame deficit of the season, were galvanized after halftime. Karl-Anthony Towns, who was in foul trouble in the first half, and coach Chris Finch, who received a technical foul, played key roles in the team’s comeback. Anthony Edwards led the scoring with 32 points, while Towns added 18. Minnesota’s defense was pivotal, allowing only 42 points after the break.
Rudy Gobert, Minnesota’s center, reflected on the team’s ability to respond to challenges, especially on the defensive end, which he believes is crucial for their success. Naz Reid contributed 15 points, and Mike Conley added 12, while Gobert himself secured 16 rebounds.
For the Heat, Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo, returning from injuries, scored 47 points combined. Herro, out for 18 games with a sprained right ankle, contributed 25 points, and Adebayo, who missed seven games with a bruised left hip, added 22. Jimmy Butler, Duncan Robinson, and Josh Richardson also contributed significantly for Miami.
Despite the contributions from Herro and Adebayo, Minnesota’s comeback was notable. The team has consistently demonstrated an ability to overturn deficits, recording their seventh win after trailing by at least 10 points. Conversely, Miami suffered their seventh loss after leading by double figures.
This 20-5 start is a historic one for Minnesota, marking their best performance through 25 games in franchise history, surpassing the 17-8 start of the 2001-02 Timberwolves. Coach Finch praised his team’s willingness to adapt and make it work.
The game’s turning point came in the third quarter when Minnesota’s defense tightened, significantly reducing Miami’s scoring and setting up a fourth-quarter comeback. Miami’s coach Erik Spoelstra acknowledged Minnesota’s status as the league’s top defensive team.
The Timberwolves will next face Philadelphia on Wednesday, while the Heat will take on Orlando the same night, as both teams look to build on their performances.
