Timberwolves Struggle in 122-108 Loss to Blazers, Turnovers and Defense a Major Issue

Timberwolves Fall Flat in 122-108 Loss to Portland to Open NBA Cup Play

PORTLAND, ORE. — After a dominant 25-point win over Portland just a few days ago, the Timberwolves were brought back to reality in a 122-108 defeat to the Trail Blazers on Tuesday night. Opening NBA Cup play with a lackluster performance, Minnesota’s loss marked another disappointing chapter in a season that’s been marked by inconsistency.

The Timberwolves were never truly in the game, dropping their second straight loss after Sunday’s humiliating defeat to Miami. In a game against one of the league’s worst teams—Portland had just been blown out by 45 points to Memphis—the Wolves were outplayed on both ends of the floor, committing 23 turnovers and allowing the Blazers to shoot 51% from the field.

The game started poorly for Minnesota, as they opened with one of their worst quarters of the season. The offense was sluggish, with more turnovers (seven) than field goals (six) in the opening frame. Portland took full advantage, leading 28-17 after the first quarter. Coach Chris Finch typically leans on his bench to provide a spark, but the reserves couldn’t turn the tide early on either.

Though the offense showed signs of life in the second quarter, the defense remained porous. Naz Reid was a bright spot, scoring 15 points on 6-for-8 shooting in the first half, while Anthony Edwards added 14 after a quiet start. However, the Blazers finished the half shooting a solid 52%, and they led 60-53 at the break. Portland’s Robert Williams (13 points) and Dalano Banton (12 points) also contributed to the scoring surge, adding depth to an offense that seemed to have little trouble against the Wolves’ defense.

Coming out of halftime, Minnesota’s problems only worsened. The Timberwolves were outscored 33-21 in the third quarter, and another seven turnovers doomed any chance of a comeback. By the fourth quarter, Portland was freely driving to the basket, while the Wolves continued to struggle with basic execution, including turnovers on inbounds passes.

Naz Reid led Minnesota with 28 points, but Julius Randle had a quiet night, finishing with just 11 points on 3-for-9 shooting. Jerami Grant led Portland with 21 points, and seven Blazers finished in double figures. The Timberwolves will look to bounce back Wednesday night when the two teams meet again in Portland.

This game raises more questions than answers for Minnesota, and it’s clear they’ll need a significant turnaround to right the ship