After a heartbreaking 128-126 Game 4 loss, the Minnesota Timberwolves are now down 3-1 in the Western Conference Finals. There were a lot of negatives for the Wolves in this game, including turnovers, poor rebounding, and underwhelming star play. However, the Timberwolves got incredible production from their complementary players.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker led the way with 23 points and six assists off the bench, Jaden McDaniels had an all-around performance highlighted by 22 points, Donte DiVincenzo notched 21 points off the bench, and Naz Reid chipped in 11 points. In addition to their scoring production, all of these players made well-rounded impacts. While it's unlikely, this stellar play from their supporting cast gives Minnesota a path to pull off a rare 3-1 comeback.
The Timberwolves supporting cast is vital to their success
In a series where Anthony Edwards has faced suffocating defensive pressure and Julius Randle has been inconsistent, the T-Wolves have had to get production elsewhere. McDaniels and Alexander-Walker, in particular, have been two of the Timberwolves' most consistent sources of offense. McDaniels is averaging 15.3 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists while shooting 47 percent from beyond the arc and playing exceptional defense. NAW is averaging 15 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists on 48 percent shooting from 3 while also playing crucial defense.
DiVincenzo and Reid haven't been as consistent but have stepped up in the last two games. DiVincenzo's outside shooting and secondary playmaking have been crucial. Reid's shot creation, shooting, and rebounding have also been impactful. Additionally, rookie Terrence Shannon Jr. has given the Wolves a nice spark off the bench these past two games. Notably, the Timberwolves' bench outscored the Thunder's bench 64 to 27 in Game 4. Overall, the Wolves' depth is a key strength.
As a team, the Timberwolves are shooting 37.4 percent from 3 this series, including 46.9 percent in the past two games. The contributions of these role players have undoubtedly been a key part of this shooting success. Their ability to hit open shots created by Edwards and others, as well as create their own shots, is vital. However, their all-around play as defenders, rebounders, and playmakers has been equally valuable.
Having a plethora of scoring options who impact the game in multiple ways gives the Wolves a chance. When the Timberwolves' role players are playing at an elite level, and their stars are playing well, they are an unstoppable squad, as demonstrated in Game 3. The Wolves haven't been able to put it all together for the rest of the series. Nevertheless, how the Timberwolves' supporting cast has performed over the past two games is an encouraging sign that leaves the door open for an improbable 3-1 comeback. Many things will have to go right, but this Timberwolves team shouldn't be counted out.