Minnesota’s 69-Point First Half Builds a 15-Point Cushion

Minnesota erupted for 69 points in the first half, opening a 13-point lead with a 34-24 first quarter and a 35-32 second. The Timberwolves stretched the margin with a 29-25 third and now lead 98-83, with the Clippers scoring two points so far in the fourth. Darius Garland has kept Los Angeles in the fight with 22 points, but Minnesota has multiple contributors: Nah’Shon Hyland has 19 points and eight assists, while Jaden McDaniels has 17 points and seven assists. Minnesota entered the night fifth in the power index, well ahead of the Clippers at No. 21.