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May 11, 2026
Analyzed by GPT OSS 120B

Timberwolves Tie Playoff Series After Wembanyama Ejection Fuels 114-109 Win

AI Summary
Anthony Edwards poured 36 points, 16 in the fourth, as the Minnesota Timberwolves edged the San Antonio Spurs 114‑109, tying the Western Conference second‑round series 2‑2 after Victor Wembanyama’s ejection. The win hinges on clutch free throws and a late defensive stand, setting up a pivotal Game 5 in San Antonio.

Anthony Edwards delivered a fourth‑quarter surge of 16 points, guiding the Minnesota Timberwolves to a 114‑109 victory over the San Antonio Spurs and leveling the series at two games each.

Timberwolves Capitalize on Wembanyama’s Ejection to Even Series

The turning point came early in the second quarter when Victor Wembanyama was flagged for a flagrant‑2 foul after an elbow to Naz Reid’s chin, resulting in an automatic ejection. Coach Chris Finch kept the squad focused, and the Timberwolves built a 60‑56 halftime lead before extending it in the final minutes.

Statistical Breakdown: Scoring, Shooting Percentages, and Key Contributions

  • Anthony Edwards: 36 points (16 in Q4)
  • Naz Reid: 15 points, 9 rebounds (off the bench)
  • Julius Randle: 12 points
  • Rudy Gobert: 11 points, 13 rebounds
  • De’Aaron Fox (Spurs): 24 points
  • Stephon Castle (Spurs): 20 points
  • Team shooting: Timberwolves 44.7% FG (10/27 3‑pt), Spurs 47.7% FG (6/26 3‑pt)

Implications for the Western Conference Second‑Round Battle

The ejection exposed the Spurs’ reliance on Wembanyama’s interior presence. Without his shot‑blocking and scoring, San Antonio struggled to protect the paint, allowing Minnesota to dominate offensive rebounds and finish with a decisive 14‑5 run late in the game. The series now hinges on depth, discipline, and the ability of both coaches to adjust strategies without the league’s most touted rookie.

Looking Ahead: What Game 5 Could Hold for Minnesota and San Antonio

Game 5 shifts to San Antonio, where the Spurs must find a way to replace Wembanyama’s defensive anchor while maintaining the offensive flow that kept them competitive. The Timberwolves will look to keep the momentum from Edwards’ clutch shooting and Gobert’s interior dominance. Expect tighter foul management, more emphasis on perimeter shooting, and a potential showdown between Finch’s tactical adjustments and Mitch Johnson’s effort to keep his roster disciplined.