The Cleveland Cavaliers ended the Minnesota Timberwolves’ undefeated start to the NBA season with a 127-125 victory in overtime on Monday, overcoming a 47-point performance from Anthony Edwards.
Cleveland Edges Minnesota in Overtime Thriller
Playing on their home floor, the Cavaliers leaned on Donovan Mitchell, who scored 26 points, and James Harden, who contributed 19 points, 4 rebounds, and 9 assists to secure their second victory in three games. The Timberwolves entered the matchup aiming for their fourth win in as many games and controlled much of the regulation play, building a 15-point lead before halftime. Despite entering the game listed as questionable due to a knee injury, Edwards immediately made an impact by scoring 11 points in the opening quarter.
Cleveland rallied to draw even during the third quarter before taking a 7-point lead in the final frame. With just 10 seconds remaining in regulation, Harden hit the tying basket to make it 113-113 and then blocked an Edwards shot that threatened to win the game for Minnesota. The extra session ultimately favored the home side. We made a lot of mistakes on offense and defense before halftime, but we were better after,
Harden said after the game.
Thunder and Rockets Extend Perfect Starts
The Houston Rockets also remained undefeated through four games following a 120-110 home victory over the Atlanta Hawks. Their margin allowed Kevin Durant to sit out the entire fourth quarter. The streak marks the first time Houston has opened a season with four straight wins since 2014.
Grizzlies, Mavericks, and Warriors Secure Victories
The Memphis Grizzlies notched their fourth victory of the campaign by defeating the Utah Jazz 110-105 on the road. Meanwhile, in Miami, Giannis Antetokounmpo posted his first triple-double of the season with 29 points, 14 rebounds, and 11 assists, though it was not enough to prevent the Heat from suffering their fourth loss in as many games, falling 113-109 to the Dallas Mavericks. Dallas was once again fueled by Cooper Flagg, who recorded 29 points, 11 assists, 6 rebounds, and 5 steals.
In Denver, the Golden State Warriors captured their first win of the season by defeating the Nuggets 134-114, propelled by Stephen Curry’s 24-point night on 8-of-8 shooting from the field. It’s all about patience. We worked on offensive phases in which I know I am closely watched, trying not to force things. I didn’t expect a night as perfect as that,
Curry said.
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