You have to give the Wolves credit for being entertaining. They certainly injected some drama into tonight's 124-122 victory over Boston at Target Center by missing shots and free throws down the stretch after holding a 10-point lead with 1:22 left.
But, after Marcus Smart's wide-open three-pointer went long at the buzzer, the Wolves had their first victory since the All Star break.
Here are some thoughts on the game:
--Once again Karl-Anthony Towns was really, really good. He scored 15 of his 28 points in the first quarter – the highest-scoring quarter of his rookie season. He hit a three-pointer, several mid-range jumpers and was active in the post. He had one up-and-under move on Jared Sullinger that was just wicked. It was his 32nd double-double this season and 16th 20-10 performance.
--After clearly being tired and struggling in Saturday's loss to New York, Gorgui Dieng bounced back with a strong, 17-point, 12-rebound game. The Wolves felt they had a size advantage in the post and they certainly took advantage of it.
--Tyus Jones' nine points were a season high. His first stint was not very good. But he came back with some plays late that got his confidence going. Those plays included a steal and fast break basket and a three-pointer.
--There is no question the Wolves offense has better spacing and is more explosive with Zach LaVine back in the starting lineup. The Wolves shot better than 50 percent for the 11th time this season.
--Free throw shooting almost did this team in. The Wolves got to the line 40 times, but missed 10 of them. Six of those misses came in the fourth quarter.
