The Sacramento Kings delivered a dramatic overtime comeback against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday night, seizing a 117-112 victory that left Timberwolves fans reeling from déjà vu. After blowing a double-digit lead in the final minutes for the second straight game, Minnesota’s late-game struggles are now under the spotlight.
DeRozan Dominates as Kings Rally Late
DeMar DeRozan was unstoppable, pouring in 33 points—including a perfect 15-for-15 from the free-throw line—to lead the Kings’ charge. Sacramento trailed by 10 with just three minutes left in regulation, but DeRozan’s clutch free throws tied the game at 101 with 34 seconds remaining. Neither team could convert on their final possessions, sending the contest to overtime.
In the extra period, the Kings’ momentum continued.
Keegan Murray added a monster double-double with 26 points and 14 rebounds, while Malik Monk chipped in 22 points. The win marks Sacramento’s second straight comeback victory, following a rally against Denver that snapped their eight-game losing streak. The Kings now sit at 5-13, hoping this gritty win signals a turnaround.
Timberwolves Collapse Again Despite Edwards’ Scoring Explosion
For Minnesota, the loss was painfully familiar. Just two nights earlier, the Timberwolves squandered an eight-point lead in the final minute against Phoenix. This time,
Anthony Edwards exploded for 43 points and 7 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to secure the win. Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo each contributed 17 points, and Naz Reid added 15, but the Wolves’ offense sputtered when it mattered most.
Minnesota’s record drops to 10-7, and questions are mounting about their ability to close out games. The Timberwolves’ next test comes Wednesday against the Oklahoma City Thunder in an NBA Cup matchup—a game that suddenly feels pivotal for their confidence and playoff positioning.
Key Moments and Turning Points
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Kings erased a 10-point deficit in the final three minutes of regulation.- DeRozan’s free throws tied the game with 34 seconds left.
- Both teams missed potential game-winners at the end of regulation.
- Sacramento outscored Minnesota 16-11 in overtime to seal the win.
What This Means for Both Teams
For the Kings: This win could be a season-defining moment. After a brutal losing streak, Sacramento has now beaten two playoff-caliber teams in back-to-back games. DeRozan’s leadership and Murray’s emergence give fans hope that the Kings can claw their way back into the Western Conference race.
For the Timberwolves: The back-to-back collapses are a red flag. Despite Edwards’ brilliance, Minnesota’s inability to execute late is a concern. Coach Chris Finch will need to address late-game decision-making and composure if the Wolves hope to contend in the West.
Looking Ahead
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Timberwolves: Face the Thunder in Oklahoma City on Wednesday in an NBA Cup game.
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Kings: Host the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday, aiming to build on their newfound momentum.
Takeaway: The Kings’ resilience and DeRozan’s clutch performance exposed a glaring weakness in Minnesota’s late-game execution. With the season heating up, both teams face critical tests in their next outings.
Sources
1. Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Sacramento Kings Live Score and Stats
2. Wolves Opponent Watch Party: Thunder at Nuggets - Game 6
3. Final 4:33 INSANE ENDING Kings vs Timberwolves - YouTube
4. NBA Draft: Wolves, Josh Minott Agree to Four-Year, $6.8 ...
5. Minnesota Timberwolves vs Sacramento Kings Full Game Highlights
6. Game Preview #12 - Timberwolves vs. Kings
7. In Defense of the Minnesota Timberwolves
8. Preseason Preview: Timberwolves at 76ers
9. NBA Playoffs Game 5 Preview: Timberwolves vs. Warriors
10. 2021-2022 Canis Hoopus Starting Line-up
