Minnesota Timberwolves vs Phoenix Suns
PREVIEW: Minnesota brings a five-game winning streak into Target Center Monday night, looking to avenge not just a loss to Phoenix, but the loss. The Timberwolves were up eight with under a minute left in their previous matchup against the Suns, yet somehow managed to surrender that advantage through missed free throws, careless turnovers, and poor shot selection. Saturday's comeback win over the Clippers mirrored that collapse, with Minnesota facing an 18-point deficit before rallying in the third quarter, only to nearly squander another late-game lead through turnovers and isolation-heavy offense. The difference this time came down to one moment: Naz Reid's clutch three-pointer with seconds remaining that bailed the team out after they coughed up yet another late advantage.
The Suns limp into Target Center missing both Devin Booker and Jalen Green, which should theoretically make this the easiest win of Minnesota's current winning streak. With Phoenix missing two major shot creators, the Suns shouldn't be gifted possessions or spoon-fed easy transition opportunities. The Timberwolves are averaging 120.3 points on 48.6 percent shooting while allowing 115 points on 46.4 percent shooting, indicating strong offensive and defensive efficiency. Minnesota has won five consecutive games and remains in contention for a 2 or 3 seed in the Western Conference playoff bracket, making Monday's matchup a critical opportunity to maintain momentum heading into the break.