The Phoenix Suns (9-5) led for most of the game, but the Minnesota Timberwolves (8-6) staged a late fourth-quarter surge to claim a thrilling 120-117 victory on November 18.
The game was knotted at 117 with 46.4 seconds remaining and the Suns had multiple chances to close it out. But they missed three consecutive shots and were forced into a shot-clock violation, leaving the door open for the Wolves. Randle made the most of it, draining the game-winning three-pointer with just 2.1 seconds remaining.
Julius Randle had his best game since being acquired by the Timberwolves. He finished with 35 points and 7 assists. Anthony Edwards registered 24 points, 4 rebounds, and 6 assists, while Rudy Gobert tallied 11 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 blocks.
The Suns were carried by Devin Booker, who dropped 44 points along with 6 rebounds and 7 assists. Tyus Jones had 13 points, 11 assists, and 3 steals. Grayson Allen added 18 points off the bench, but the Suns couldn’t break their slump, dropping their third-straight game.
Randle Leads Wolves Comeback Win Over Suns
The Suns looked to be in command, building a double-digit lead early with Booker’s 15 points. But the Wolves showed a fight, rallying back late to cut the deficit to (31-22). Allen came out firing in the second, extending the margin to (38-22). DiVincenzo ignited a fightback with four threes to bring the Wolves within 4. But Booker finished the half strong, helping the Suns restore a 10-point lead.
The third quarter was a rollercoaster ride, but the Timberwolves gained momentum, narrowing the margin to (71-76). Randle and Gobert combined for 15. Edwards then went on a scoring spree, putting up 10 points to bring the Wolves within a point, (83-84). But Phoenix had an answer, closing the quarter with two threes to gain some breathing room.
The Suns maintained control in the fourth, holding onto a 7-point cushion. But Minnesota surged with an 8-0 run to claim their first lead of the game. Allen responded with a clutch three-pointer to put the Suns back on top, but Edwards sank two free-throws to tie the game. Then the Wolves clamped down defensively, allowing Randle to deliver the final blow.
The Suns face the Magic tomorrow, while the Wolves travel to Toronto on Friday.
