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Suns Scorched by Timberwolves' Offensive Onslaught at Target Center

The Phoenix Suns, with a record of 49-33, faced off against the Minnesota Timberwolves, who held a strong 56-26 record. The game concluded with the Suns falling short as the Timberwolves secured a commanding victory with a final score of 120-95.


MINNEAPOLIS, MN -  APRIL 20: Mike Conley #10 of the Minnesota Timberwolves drives to the basket during the game against the Phoenix Suns during Round 1 Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Playoffs on April 20, 2024 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images)

The Suns started off energetically, outscoring the Timberwolves in the first quarter by one point. However, as the game progressed, they struggled to maintain their momentum. Despite their efforts and leading for just under six minutes of playtime, they couldn't sustain their early advantage. The team's efficiency rating was calculated at 94 compared to their opponents' more robust rating of 137.


Phoenix's performance was marked by several key statistics: they achieved six blocks and nine steals over the course of the game. Assists were another area where they showed skillful playmaking with a total of 16 assists distributed among players. However, turnovers proved problematic for them as they gave up possession on 15 occasions.


MINNEAPOLIS, MN -  APRIL 20: Rudy Gobert #27 of the Minnesota Timberwolves drives to the basket during the game against the Phoenix Suns during Round 1 Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Playoffs on April 20, 2024 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images)

From beyond the arc, Phoenix managed to convert nine out of their 28 three-point attempts resulting in a three-point shooting percentage of 32 percent. Inside the paint was slightly more successful for them; converting half of their attempts led to scoring 34 points from that area on court.


One notable aspect for Phoenix fans was that despite trailing behind in rebounds overall (34 compared to Minnesota's dominant tally), offensive rebounds were particularly low at just three throughout all four quarters – an area likely targeted for improvement in future games.


MINNEAPOLIS, MN -  APRIL 20: Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns shoots the ball during Round One Game One of the 2024 NBA Playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves on April 20, 2024 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Jordan Johnson/NBAE via Getty Images)

On offense, free throws were one bright spot where Phoenix excelled; hitting an impressive rate at which they scored from charity stripe – making good on 80 percent from free throw line (20 made out of 25 attempts). Their field goal percentage stood at an even keel with nearly half (44 percent) finding success from field goals attempted during match-up.


As for bench contributions, reserves added another layer scoring depth chipping in with eighteen points but it wasn't enough against Minnesota’s bench who amassed forty-one points themselves contributing significantly towards home side’s win margin which peaked at twenty-seven points lead during contest.


Looking ahead after this tough outing away from home soil - fans can catch next action involving Phoenix Suns when they return once again face Minnesota Timberwolves; this time taking place Target Center located Minneapolis scheduled April twenty-third starting four thirty PM Central Time broadcasted live TNT network ensuring supporters won’t miss moment upcoming rematch between these two sides.

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