Celtics Edge Timberwolves in Overtime Showdown at TD Garden
The Minnesota Timberwolves, with a record of 26-11, faced off against the Boston Celtics, who held a record of 29-8. In an intense matchup that went into overtime, the final score read 127-120 in favor of the home team.
The game at TD Garden was a rollercoaster ride with the lead changing hands 14 times and the scores tied on 11 occasions. The Timberwolves showed commendable effort throughout, leading for nearly 20 minutes and achieving their biggest lead of nine points. However, it was not enough to secure victory against a resilient Celtics squad.
Minnesota's performance was marked by solid shooting from both inside and beyond the arc. The team shot at an impressive rate from two-point range with a conversion rate of 49 percent and maintained accuracy from three-point territory at 41 percent. Their free throw proficiency was particularly noteworthy as they made good on an exceptional 90 percent of their attempts from the line.
Despite their offensive efficiency, which saw them notch up an offensive rating of approximately 115 points per hundred possessions, Minnesota struggled defensively. They allowed Boston to score at a rate slightly above their own offensive rating. This defensive gap ultimately contributed to their inability to close out what was otherwise a closely contested game.
The Timberwolves' bench contributed significantly with 29 points but fell short compared to Boston's starters who seemed just more effective on this occasion. Rebounding was almost even between both teams; however, Minnesota edged out slightly with total rebounds gathered during play.
Key players for Minnesota stepped up when called upon; they managed six blocks and four steals over the course of action but also gave away nine turnovers which translated into six points for Boston off those mistakes.
Looking ahead after this hard-fought battle in Massachusetts, fans can catch the next game featuring Minnesota Timberwolves as they host Portland Trail Blazers at Target Center in Minneapolis on January 12th at 5:00 PM local time (Central Time). The match will be broadcasted live on BSN channel number 668 for home viewers while ROOT Sports NW will cover it on channel number 687 for those following away from home.