Minnesota Timberwolves: Key player from Game 1

Derrick Rose was Minnesota’s most important player in Game 1 of the playoffs.

Whether fans and media liked it or not, the Timberwolves wouldn’t have lost by just 3 points if it wasn’t for Derrick Rose and his contributions down-the-stretch.

Coach Thibs will get a lot of the blame for not involving Butler or Towns in the offense more.

Although, the switching ability of the Rockets defense cornered Butler and Towns into taking bad shots, stopping them from getting into the paint for easy buckets. Whether that was the scheme for the night, or the lack of aggressive play by Towns and Butler, it equated to an impressive performance from former MVP, Derrick Rose.

Injury riddled Jimmy Butler and “lights may be too bright” Karl-Anthony Towns expect to have a much better performance in Game 2.

Rose ended the night with the third best stat line out of both teams, arguably out playing Hall of Fame point guard, Chris Paul.

This Derrick Rose usage and good play down-the-stretch will most likely fade away in Game 2, but it should be commended, nonetheless.