In a stunning display of resilience and firepower, the Minnesota Timberwolves secured a 122-116 victory over the Phoenix Suns to complete a four-game sweep in their Western Conference first-round series.
Rising star Anthony Edwards stole the show, erupting for 40 points, with a staggering 31 of those coming in the second half alone. Edwards showcased his scoring prowess, knocking down seven 3-pointers while also contributing nine rebounds and six assists. Karl-Anthony Towns provided ample support with 28 points and 10 rebounds, as the third-seeded Timberwolves marked their return to playoff success by winning their first playoff series in 20 years.
Despite a valiant effort from the Suns, led by a playoff-career-high 49 points from Devin Booker and a stellar performance from Kevin Durant, who added 33 points, Phoenix couldn’t stave off elimination.
With the victory, the Timberwolves now await the outcome of the series between the Denver Nuggets and the Los Angeles Lakers to determine their second-round opponent.
Knicks Secure Victory Over 76ers, Take 3-1 Series Lead
In a closely contested battle, the New York Knicks emerged victorious with a 97-92 win over the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 4 of their Eastern Conference first-round series.
Jalen Brunson was the standout performer for the Knicks, delivering a career playoff-high 47 points along with 10 assists. Brunson’s stellar performance not only set a franchise playoff scoring record but also marked the first time in franchise history that a player recorded at least 30 points and 10 assists in consecutive playoff games.
Despite a strong showing from Joel Embiid, who contributed 27 points and 10 rebounds for the 76ers, it wasn’t enough to prevent the Knicks from taking a commanding 3-1 series lead.
With Game 5 set to take place in New York, the Knicks are now on the brink of advancing to the next round, while the 76ers face an uphill battle to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Pacers Overpower Bucks, Take 3-1 Series Lead
In a high-scoring affair, the Indiana Pacers secured a convincing 126-113 victory over the undermanned Milwaukee Bucks in Game 4 of their Eastern Conference first-round series.
Myles Turner led the charge for the Pacers with 29 points, while Tyrese Haliburton added 24 points despite being listed as questionable due to a back injury. The Pacers’ sharpshooting from beyond the arc, shooting 51.2 percent, proved to be a key factor in their victory as they seized a commanding 3-1 series lead.
Despite a strong performance from Milwaukee’s Brook Lopez and Khris Middleton, who combined for 52 points, the Bucks were unable to overcome the Pacers’ offensive onslaught.
With Game 5 set to take place in Milwaukee, the Pacers will look to close out the series and advance to the next round, while the Bucks will aim to keep their playoff hopes alive with a much-needed victory on home turf.
Clippers Stage Comeback to Even Series Against Mavericks
In a thrilling matchup, the Los Angeles Clippers rallied from a 31-point deficit to secure a hard-fought 116-111 victory over the Dallas Mavericks in Game 4 of their Western Conference first-round playoff series.
Paul George and James Harden led the charge for the Clippers, each scoring 33 points to spearhead the comeback effort. Despite a stellar performance from Luka Doncic, who recorded a triple-double with 29 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists, the Mavericks were unable to hold onto their lead as the Clippers stormed back to even the series at 2-2.
With the series now tied, both teams head back to Los Angeles for Game 5, where the Clippers will look to capitalize on their momentum and take the lead in the series, while the Mavericks aim to bounce back and regain control on the road.