Timberwolves Stumble in NBA Cup, Prepare for Showdown with Golden State and Sacramento
After a disappointing exit from the NBA Cup group stage, the Minnesota Timberwolves find themselves sidelined from the tournament’s playoff action. Instead, they will participate in two additional regular-season games next week, offering them a chance to regroup and refocus.
Upcoming Matchups
Minnesota’s journey continues with a road game against the Golden State Warriors on Friday, December 12, at 9 p.m. CT. They’ll then return home to face the Sacramento Kings on Sunday, December 14, at 6 p.m. CT. While the Timberwolves won’t be vying for the tournament’s prize money, these matchups against struggling opponents present an opportunity for redemption.
The Warriors currently sit at a mediocre 10-10, grappling with their own inconsistencies. The Kings, however, are in a more precarious position, languishing with a 5-15 record, marking them as one of the league’s bottom dwellers this season.
Struggles Against Winning Teams
Despite the favorable matchup against lower-ranked teams, the Timberwolves have yet to prove themselves against stronger competition this season. They remain winless against teams with a record above .500, holding a dismal 0-7 mark in such contests. In stark contrast, Minnesota boasts a 10-1 record against teams with losing records, underscoring the disparity in their performance.
Adding to their woes, the Timberwolves recently suffered an embarrassing defeat to the Kings, squandering a late lead in the fourth quarter before ultimately falling in overtime. This loss followed a heartbreaking collapse against the Phoenix Suns, where they blew an eight-point lead in the final 50 seconds of regulation. Had those late-game collapses not occurred, the Timberwolves might have advanced to the NBA Cup playoffs, setting them up for a semifinal clash against the Oklahoma City Thunder on December 12.
A Chance for Redemption
Currently holding a 10-8 overall record, the Timberwolves have another opportunity to secure their first victory against a winning team when they host the Boston Celtics, who also stand at 10-8, on Sunday at 4 p.m. CT in Minneapolis. This matchup could serve as a pivotal moment for Minnesota, as they look to shake off the disappointment of the NBA Cup and regain momentum heading into the remainder of the season.
