The Minnesota Timberwolves showcased a commanding performance in their recent preseason encounter, extending their perfect record to 2-0. Their latest triumph came against the Guangzhou Loong-Lions, whom they overpowered with a significant 134-74 victory. The game, held at the Target Center in Minneapolis, highlighted the Timberwolves' early-season prowess and depth.
A standout figure in this impressive win was Rob Dillingham, who delivered an exceptional performance. Dillingham led his team with a game-high 27 points, achieving this on highly efficient 10-of-14 shooting from the field, including a perfect 4-of-4 from beyond the arc. Additionally, he facilitated the offense with nine assists, all accomplished in just 28 minutes of play. His dynamic scoring and playmaking were pivotal in establishing the Timberwolves' dominance from the outset.
The Timberwolves quickly took control in the opening quarter, building an early 30-20 lead. This initial surge was fueled by Leonard Miller's seven points and Joan Beringer's six. Dillingham's presence was immediately felt as he contributed three assists in this period, setting up key plays such as Miller's finger roll and Beringer's impressive putback dunk just before the buzzer sounded. Despite early turnovers plaguing the Guangzhou Loong-Lions, Minnesota maintained their composure and momentum.
Guangzhou's Victor Oladipo contributed five points, and Frank Kaminsky added six, including a putback layup. However, their efforts were insufficient to counter the Timberwolves' sustained offensive pressure. Towards the end of the first quarter, the Timberwolves launched a decisive 16-2 run, capped by Johnny Juzang's back-to-back three-pointers, both assisted by Dillingham, further solidifying their lead at 30-20.
The second quarter saw Minnesota dramatically extend their advantage, heading into halftime with a commanding 68-36 lead. Dillingham continued his hot streak, adding 13 points in this period alone, including a long-range 24-footer and successful free throws. Shannon Jr. also made significant contributions with eight points, including two three-pointers. Hyland played a key role in distributing the ball, tallying seven assists before being rested, connecting with Miller for a layup and Shannon for a pull-up three.
For the Loong-Lions, Oladipo added eight points, and Tim Frazier contributed four. However, their struggle with shooting efficiency, hitting only 33 percent from the field, coupled with 18 turnovers throughout the game, severely hampered their ability to compete. Juzang provided a significant spark off the bench for Minnesota, scoring 11 points in the first half, including a step-back three that pushed their lead to 26-16 midway through the second quarter.
The third quarter continued to be a one-sided affair, with Minnesota outscoring Guangzhou 31-14. Dillingham added another 10 points to his tally, showcasing his versatility with a step-back jumper and a deep three-pointer assisted by Hyland. Shannon further extended the lead with a running three, making the score 73-36. The quarter concluded with Enrique Freeman sinking a three-pointer at the buzzer, leaving Minnesota with a dominant 99-50 lead going into the final frame.
The final quarter saw the Timberwolves' reserves maintain the high level of play. Juzang erupted for 15 points, highlighted by three three-pointers and a cutting layup. Zikarsky contributed 16 points, with 10 coming in this period through dunks and a hook shot, while Bernard added 11 points, primarily from free throws and layups. Despite a strong effort from Guangzhou's bench, led by Deonte Burton's eight points and four steals, and Oladipo's total of 14 points, the Loong-Lions could not bridge the massive gap.
Other notable performances for Minnesota included Miller's double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds, and Shannon matching Dillingham's scoring total of 15 points. Beringer secured 10 rebounds, and Hyland, despite not scoring, dished out seven assists. The Timberwolves' overall team statistics were impressive, dominating with 60 points in the paint, a 52-25 rebounding advantage, and assisting on a remarkable 67 buckets. Their shooting efficiency was also a highlight, connecting on 51.5 percent of their three-pointers, while Guangzhou struggled significantly, shooting 33.3 percent from the field and a mere 16.1 percent from three-point range.
The Minnesota Timberwolves' recent preseason game against the Guangzhou Loong-Lions underscored their impressive form and potential. With a resounding 134-74 victory, the team demonstrated superior execution on both ends of the court. Key contributions from emerging talents like Rob Dillingham, who shone with 27 points and 9 assists, along with strong performances from Leonard Miller, Joan Beringer, and Johnny Juzang, highlighted the team's balanced attack and depth. Their dominance in rebounding, assists, and interior scoring, coupled with a stifling defense that limited the Loong-Lions' offensive output, positions them strongly as they continue their preseason journey with a flawless 2-0 record.
