Timberwolves Overpower Pacers 124-104 to Close in on Top Six Seed

INDIANAPOLIS — The Minnesota Timberwolves secured a decisive 124-104 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday night, snapping a three-game losing streak and moving closer to avoiding the Western Conference play-in tournament. Led by a 24-point performance from Ayo Dosunmu, Minnesota dominated much of the contest to keep their postseason momentum building.

For the Timberwolves, the win comes at a critical juncture. Minnesota is now on the cusp of clinching a top six seed in the West; that milestone could be reached as early as Tuesday night if the Houston Rockets defeat the Phoenix Suns.

Dosunmu Leads the Charge Amid Key Absences

The victory was particularly impressive given the personnel Minnesota was missing. All-Star guard Anthony Edwards remained sidelined with a right knee injury, marking his ninth absence in the last 11 games. Jayden McDaniels also missed his sixth consecutive game due to a left knee injury. Despite these losses, the Timberwolves’ depth proved sufficient against a depleted Pacers squad.

Ayo Dosunmu paced the offense, shooting 10-of-17 from the field to finish with 24 points. He was supported by Julius Randle and Bones Hyland, who each contributed 19 points. Hyland added seven assists to his scoring total, while Rudy Gobert anchored the defense and cleaned up the glass with 12 rebounds, including 10 defensive boards.

The efficiency of the Minnesota offense was evident in the box score, as the team shot 52% from the field and a blistering 94% from the free-throw line (15-of-16). Their perimeter shooting was also a factor, converting 41% of their attempts from beyond the arc.

Third Quarter Surge Seals the Result

While the Timberwolves held a double-digit lead late in the first quarter, the game remained somewhat competitive through the first half. Minnesota entered the locker room with a 63-53 advantage and extended that lead to 73-55 early in the third quarter.

Indiana attempted a comeback midway through the third, utilizing a 6-0 run to trim the deficit to 77-67. However, the rally was short-lived. Minnesota responded with a devastating 25-5 run to close the quarter, pushing the lead to 102-77 and effectively ending any hopes of a Pacers comeback.

On the other side, the Pacers struggled to find a consistent rhythm. Ethan Thompson led Indiana with 17 points, while Obi Toppin and Jalen Slawson each chipped in 14. The Pacers shot 48% from the field but struggled with turnovers, committing 23 throughout the game.

Historic Struggles for Indiana

The loss marks a continuing downward spiral for the Pacers, who have now lost three consecutive games. The team’s recent form is alarming, posting a 4-22 record over their last 26 contests. Currently ranked as the league’s second-worst team, Indiana is fighting to avoid a dismal milestone: they now need two wins to prevent posting the lowest single-season victory total in the history of the franchise.

The disparity in execution was clear in the team statistics, as Minnesota out-rebounded Indiana 39-34 and maintained a commanding lead for 94% of the game.

Looking Ahead

Minnesota now looks to maintain this momentum as they fight for a guaranteed playoff spot. The team has won just two of its last six games, making this victory essential for confidence heading into the postseason. The primary focus remains the health of Anthony Edwards, whose return will be pivotal for any deep run in the playoffs.

For Indiana, the priority is purely about pride and franchise history as they attempt to secure two more wins to avoid a record-setting low.

For more detailed game data, fans can view the full box score on ESPN or watch the full game highlights via NBA.com.

What do you think about the Timberwolves’ ability to win without Anthony Edwards? Let us understand in the comments below.