NEW YORK (AP) — Julius Randle recorded his 15th career triple-double with 19 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists, leading the Minnesota Timberwolves to a 125-109 victory over the winless Brooklyn Nets on Monday night.
Donte DiVincenzo contributed 25 points, Jaden McDaniels added 22, and Rudy Gobert posted 15 points along with 12 rebounds as the Timberwolves secured their second consecutive win. This marked Randle’s first triple-double since joining Minnesota.
For the Nets, Cam Thomas scored 25 points, while Nic Claxton added 19. Brooklyn fell to 0-7 on the season, continuing their tough start which mirrors their 2009-10 campaign where they opened with 18 straight losses while still playing in New Jersey, two seasons before relocating to Brooklyn.
Without All-Star guard Anthony Edwards (hamstring), Minnesota held a 12-point lead with 9:09 left in the third quarter. However, the Nets responded with a 24-13 run. Ziaire Williams hit a 3-pointer from the left wing and was fouled by Randle; his ensuing free throw put Brooklyn ahead 88-87 with 1:57 remaining in the quarter.
The Timberwolves capitalized on four consecutive missed shots and two turnovers by Brooklyn, with Randle scoring four points to regain a 91-88 lead by the end of the third period.
Starting the fourth quarter, Minnesota went on a 6-0 run while the Nets missed three straight shots, expanding the lead to 97-88. From there, the Timberwolves effectively put the game out of reach.
Minnesota shot an efficient 56% from the field and 41% from beyond the arc, outrebounding Brooklyn 53-40. Meanwhile, Michael Porter Jr. did not play for the Nets due to personal reasons.
Up Next:
- Timberwolves: Remain in New York to face the Knicks on Wednesday.
- Nets: Visit the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday.
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AP NBA