The lasting memory of Ayo Dosunmu's Game 4 performance will be his amazing catch off a full-court pass from Jaden McDaniels. Dosunmu's clutch free throws after this play secured a 114-109 Minnesota Timberwolves win. After the game, Anthony Edwards compared him to former Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Roddy White.
However, the reality is that Dosunmu didn't play well in Game 4, and he hasn't looked healthy throughout the series. Ayo finished the night with 10 points on 3-for-12 shooting from the field.
Overall, Dosunmu is averaging just 7 points, 4 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 2 turnovers this series on 25 percent shooting from the field and 30.8 percent shooting from 3-point range.
Ayo Dosunmu has struggled against the Spurs
Victor Wembanyama's ejection in the second quarter opened up the driving lanes a ton for the Wolves (and ultimately this was a key reason why they won). While Ayo was able to get to the rim more, he still doesn't have his typical breakneck speed and failed to convert on easy shots. This has also been evident in transition, where Dosunmu has uncharacteristically struggled to get going.
Given that he is coming off a calf and heel injury, this is understandable. Still, it's worth wondering if the Wolves can beat the Spurs with this version of Dosunmu, and frankly, the answer is likely no.
On the bright side, Ayo's defense has remained stellar, which is vital against the Spurs' elite backcourt.
Without a doubt, though, the Wolves will need more from Dosunmu on offense. He is tasked with plenty of ball-handling and shot creation duties. The Wolves' lack of dependable creation and ball handling outside of Edwards has been a problem that has plagued them all series long.
As Julius Randle continues to struggle offensively, Dosunmu's offensive production becomes all the more crucial.
Unfortunately, between finishing, overall creation, spot-up shooting, and playmaking, Dosunmu hasn't provided the all-around offensive value Minnesota is counting on him for.
I'd love to be confident that Dosunmu will right the ship, and I still have plenty of belief in him as a long-term piece. Nevertheless, Game 4 was a golden opportunity for Ayo to get back on track. With Wemby returning and Dosunmu's subpar play throughout the series, it's hard to see him turning things around.
Undoubtedly, injuries are limiting Ayo's impact. Regardless, to upset a 62-win Spurs team, the Wolves will need all hands on deck, and if Dosunmu keeps struggling, their chances of pulling off an upset are limited.
Add us as a preferred source on Google