A thrilling finale unfolded when Reid missed a shot, allowing Edwards to intercept the outlet pass. Reid quickly regained possession but was fouled with just 22.8 seconds remaining, putting the Timberwolves ahead 129-128. Edwards then made a crucial block against Gilgeous-Alexander at the rim, sealing the defensive play.

“That took everything out of me,” remarked Edwards, who mentioned he missed the end of the fourth quarter and the beginning of overtime due to a calf injury. “It’s wild to think I didn’t even jump that high. When I made the block, I was definitely talking a lot of smack.”

Alexander-Walker stepped up by sinking two free throws with only 6.6 seconds left, extending the Wolves’ lead to 131-128. Gilgeous-Alexander then missed a shot just before the final buzzer.

Gilgeous-Alexander was remarkable, scoring a game-high 39 points, including 14 from the free-throw line. McDaniels topped the Timberwolves scoring with 27 points, while Edwards contributed 17 points on a 5-for-15 shooting effort, along with 13 rebounds and eight assists. Reid, who seemed to twist his right ankle late in the third quarter, managed to come back after the injury scare, finishing with 22 points. Rob Dillingham added a significant boost from the bench with 12 points, while Shannon also chipped in with 17 crucial points.

“There were times when we clearly struggled to find our rhythm, but everything changed when those players stepped up,” said Finch. “Terrence was phenomenal, Nickeil was excellent, and Rob made a strong impact tonight. Those guys played exceptionally well.”

Edwards appreciated the game’s excitement, especially as he prepared to re-enter and make an impact toward the end.