By Eurohoops Team/ info@eurohoops.net
Following the Cleveland Cavaliers leading from start to finish to open the NBA Playoffs presented by Google Pixel, the Minnesota Timberwolves neared a similar performance en route to a 120-95 victory versus the Phoenix Suns in Game 1 of the Western Conference Quarterfinals best-of-seven series on Saturday.
In a solid showing on both ends, French center Rudy Gobert recorded a 14-point, 16-rebound double-double to go with two assists over 37 minutes. The 2024 Playoffs shape his eighth postseason campaign and second in a row in Minnesota. Checking in late in the fourth quarter, Bosnian teammate Luka Garza registered five points and one rebound.
Coming off three losses against the Suns in the 2023-24 Regular Season and two straight exits in the first round of the Playoffs, the Wolves created separation in the second half behind an offensive eruption of Anthony Edwards. Ant finished with 33 points in the series opener.
On the losing end of the NBA Saturdays affair, the visitors also featured a starting center from Europe. Bosnian Jusuf Nurkic went for nine points, four rebounds, three blocks, two steals, and one assist.
Besides defeat for the team coached by Frank Vogel, Grayson Allen was forced to an early exit due to a right ankle sprain. Damion Lee having surgery in his right meniscus at the top of the season was the lone player on the injury list between both sides.
Keeping the series in Target Center, Game 2 is set to be played on Tuesday.