By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
After 22 lead changes, the New Orleans Pelicans escaped Target Center with a win, 119-115, against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
With ten points, nine rebounds, one block, and one steal over 31 minutes, including eight minutes in the fourth quarter, starting center Rudy Gobert was limited to the bench by head coach Chris Finch in the final minutes.
“That’s what I live for. I’m a competitor. So, when I’m not on the court, it’s not my decision, but it’s always not easy to watch,” the 32-year-old French big reacted during a media session following the game on Wednesday, “I respect the decision. You call my name, I’m ready.”
“Offensively, I think we are just not moving the ball like we were. Defensively, I think we lack a little bit of consistency and execution. Obviously, turnovers really hurt our defense and then a little of defensive rebound hurt us,” Gobert previously talked about his side falling to 40-31 with a second straight loss in the 2024-25 NBA Regular Season.
Bosnian teammate Luka Garza did not play and Dutch Jesse Edwards remained on an assignment with G League affiliate Iowa Wolves.
Logging just over 19 minutes as the reserve center of the Pelicans, Croatian Karlo Matkovic chipped in five points, two assists, one block, and one rebound.
In a game without European imports, the Indiana Pacers dug their way out of a seven-point hole in the last 60 seconds to take down the Dallas Mavericks, 135-131, in Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Mavericks couldn’t handle their 7-point lead with a minute left and Pacers WON the game scoring 14 points in the last minute!!
INSANE COMEBACK FROM THE PACERS
pic.twitter.com/mukk9t1tS0
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