The red-hot Minnesota Timberwolves (40-29) absolutely dominated the struggling Utah Jazz (15-53) and extended their winning streak to an impressive eight games in a commanding 128-102 victory on March 17.
Minnesota Timberwolves Top Performers:
Anthony Edwards 41 PTS | 5-14 3PT | 1 STL | 48.4 FPS
Edwards had little trouble against the Jazz, recording his seventh 40+ point game of the season and setting a franchise record. He also climbed to third place on the Timberwolves’ all-time scoring list. He has a good chance to keep his hot streak going as his team faces the Pacers and the Pelicans twice each in the upcoming games. He has thrived against those teams, averaging 33 points in his last two games against the Pelicans and 40 points in his last two games against the Pacers.
Jaden McDaniels 20 PTS | 12 REB | 2 BLK | 46.4 FPS
McDaniels has been a steady all-around contributor, falling below 30 FPS just once in his last 14 games. He sometimes delivers elite point totals, but still made significant strides as a scorer, showcasing efficient shooting and improved three-point production in recent weeks. Alongside that, he continues to provide strong rebounding and defensive numbers.
Donte DiVincenzo 11 PTS | 7 AST | 2 STL | 27.7 FPS
DiVincenzo has been very productive from both the field and three, scoring in double digits in nine-straight games this month. However, he’s surpassed the 20-point mark only once, with his lack of production from the line holding his scoring output back. Still, he makes up for it with modest contributions in other areas and has also improved his playmaking in recent games.
Rudy Gobert 7 PTS | 2 STL | 2 BLK | 25.2 FPS
Gobert has been a consistent double-double force in each of his first three games back from injury but fell short today. However, he made up for it with his best defensive performance yet, and he should be able to maintain a similar level of play with a favorable schedule ahead.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker 9 PTS | 6 REB | 1 BLK | 22.7 FPS
NAW is still contributing offensively, but his production has been lesser as the team gets healthier, making him a potential drop.
Utah Jazz Top Performers:
Walker Kessler 15 PTS | 6-15 FG | 19 REB | 35.8 FPS
Kessler has been in and out of the lineup for a while now but remains highly productive when available. He’s consistently delivered strong double-doubles and has even recorded six or more blocks in two outings. The team’s next five games come with a favorable schedule, featuring no back-to-backs, though it wouldn’t be surprising if he still ends up missing a couple of games.
Colin Sexton 22 PTS | 4 REB | 4 AST | 33.8 FPS
Sexton missed 10 games last month due to injuries and has been in and out of the lineup this month with an ankle issue. However, he remains a capable scorer, posting 15+ points in five of six games, including two 22-point performances. That said, he might not be really worth a roster spot, given his availability issues and inconsistent production in other areas.
Kyle Filipowski 10 PTS | 4 REB | 2 STL | 22.3 FPS
Filipowski saw an increased role earlier this month with Kessler mostly unavailable and has been a reliable contributor, averaging 20 points and nearly 9 rebounds over five games, along with some strong steal performances. He could be a solid streaming option, but only when Kessler is out.
Isaiah Collier 11 PTS | 6 REB | 6 AST | 22.2 FPS
Collier’s strong playmaking and consistent double-digit scoring have solidified his spot in the starting lineup since January. However, his fantasy value remains shaky, with his assists dipping and his turnovers remaining high this month. His lack of three-point production and poor free-throw shooting are still concerns but he should still maintain a significant role for the rest of the season.
Johnny Juzang 12 PTS | 3 AST | 1 STL | 20.7 FPS
Juzang isn’t doing much outside of scoring, but he’s steadily earning a solid role in the rotation lately, even with key players returning. However, consistency has been an issue, which is why his production has been highly up-and-down this month.
Biggest Disappointment of the Game:
Naz Reid 5 PTS | 9 REB | 3 STL
Reid had a forgettable shooting performance today, going 2-for-10 from the field and missing all five of his three-point attempts. His offensive output has noticeably declined lately, along with his usage, as he’s scored under 10 points in three-straight games. The trend is also likely to continue with the team getting healthier, but he should still remain an impactful contributor, particularly in rebounds and defensive stats.
