In Game 3, the Timberwolves blew out the Oklahoma City Thunder 143-101. Those 143 points were the most in Timberwolves playoff history. With that, the Wolves are now down 2-1 in the series. While a lot of factors went into this dominant win, one of the most exciting was the presence of rookie wing Terrence Shannon Jr. Let's dive into Shannon's play and how it could help the Wolves climb back in this series.
Terrence Shannon Jr. is a natural bucket getter
Shannon has always been known for his elite shot-creating and scoring abilities. This was Shannon's main appeal as a prospect; in his final season at Illinois he averaged an absurd 23 points. He was inserted into the game to start the second quarter when the Wolves were up by 20 points.
Shannon immediately poured in nine points in just four minutes, helping build the Timberwolves a 31-point lead at halftime. For the game, Shannon finished with 13 minutes and 15 points on 5-8 shooting. He attacked the rim at a high rate, scoring six of his points in the paint, and finished through contact. Notably, Shannon was also 4-4 at the line.
Undoubtedly, Shannon's ability to score in bunches benefited the Wolves, giving them a spark off the bench. Given the Timberwolves' offensive struggles earlier this series, Shannon is likely to get more opportunities. His stellar play should earn him some minutes, regardless, but Shannon could be especially valuable if the Timberwolves' offense is cold. After the game, head coach Chris Finch praised Shannon and confirmed he'll play more throughout the series.
"You're definitely gonna see him more. Chris Finch said when asked about Shannon's role moving forward. We just want to see more of the same, but we know either way whether the shots go in or he scores or he doesn't score, he's going to bring energy and competitiveness, that's what we love about him."
Finch's point is crucial; Shannon's main calling card is his scoring, but it's his ability to do the little things right and make an all-around impact that will earn him minutes.
Shannon's defense and all-around impact
Shannon's defense was also vital to his impact in Game 3. He perfectly fit into the Timberwolves' game plan of high ball pressure and defensive intensity. This skill set helped the Wolves disrupt OKC's offense and gave Shannon a positive defensive impact. In his 13 minutes, Shannon was able to force a steal, leading to an easy layup on the other end of the court. Shannon's length and athleticism make him a highly impactful and versatile defender. While he mostly defends perimeter players, Shannon can guard bigger players if need be. In Game 3, Shannon's versatility was on full display, including on this play against Chet Holmgren.
Shannon's defense could be beneficial in lineups with other disruptive defenders like Jaden McDaniels, Anthony Edwards, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker. Additionally, Shannon is a good rebounder and willing to make the extra pass if needed. While Shannon's offensive creation was his most notable skill ihis ability to make a well-rounded impact will keep him on the court. Having another player off the bench who can make a positive two-way impact could change the series for Minnesota. Ultimately, the Wolves found they can trust Shannon with spot minutes going forward.