Timberwolves Take 2-0 Series Lead Over Suns with 105-93 Win in Game 2

The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Phoenix Suns 105-93 in Game 2 of their NBA Playoffs first-round series on Wednesday night at the Target Center in Minneapolis. With the win, the Timberwolves have taken a commanding 2-0 series lead as the matchup shifts to Phoenix for Game 3 on Friday.

Jaden McDaniels led the way for Minnesota, scoring a playoff career-high 25 points on 9-of-14 shooting. Timberwolves coach Chris Finch described McDaniels' performance as the best he's ever seen from the young forward. Mike Conley and Rudy Gobert each chipped in 18 points for the Wolves, who got contributions from multiple sources in the victory.

The Timberwolves' stifling defense was the story of the game, holding the high-powered Suns offense to under 100 points for the second straight contest. Phoenix's star trio of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal combined to shoot just 18-for-45 from the field. Booker led the Suns with 20 points, while Durant added 18 in the losing effort.

Why this matters: The Timberwolves' surprising 2-0 series lead over the heavily favored Suns has sent shockwaves through the NBA playoffs. If Minnesota can maintain their defensive intensity and balanced scoring, they have a legitimate chance to pull off a historic first-round upset.

Minnesota used their size advantage inside to create separation in the second half, with McDaniels and Gobert making key contributions. A 12-0 run in the third quarter helped the Timberwolves build a comfortable lead that they would not relinquish. "We knew we had to come out with a lot of energy and be the aggressors," said Conley. "Our defense has been great all series, and it carried us again tonight."

Frustration boiled over for the Suns, with coach Frank Vogel receiving a technical foul in the fourth quarter. Phoenix was also hampered by an ankle injury to guard Grayson Allen, who exited the game in the third quarter and did not return. The Suns will need to regroup quickly as they head home facing a daunting 2-0 deficit in the series. Game 3 is set for Friday night at the Footprint Center in Phoenix.

Key Takeaways

• Timberwolves defeat Suns 105-93 in Game 2, take 2-0 series lead
• Jaden McDaniels scores playoff career-high 25 points for Minnesota
• Timberwolves' stifling defense holds Suns' stars to 18-45 shooting
• Timberwolves use size advantage, 12-0 run in 3rd to build lead
• Suns' Grayson Allen exits with ankle injury, face daunting 2-0 deficit