The San Antonio Spurs are heading into enemy territory with a 2-1 series lead, ready to take on the Minnesota Timberwolves in a pivotal Game 4 of the Western Conference second round. After dropping the series opener, the Spurs have rallied with two straight wins, including a hard-fought 115-108 victory on Saturday that was powered by a massive 39-point performance from Victor Wembanyama. On the other side, Anthony Edwards answered with 32 points for Minnesota, but it wasn't enough to stop San Antonio's momentum.
This Timberwolves squad has been tough at home all season, boasting a 31-21 record against Western Conference opponents. A big reason for that success? Their dominance on the boards. Minnesota grabs 33.0 defensive rebounds per game, ranking sixth in the conference, with Rudy Gobert pulling down 7.5 of those himself. But the Spurs are no slouches either. San Antonio is 36-16 against West teams and loves to push the pace, averaging 16.3 fast break points per game—fourth best in the conference. Julian Champagnie has been a key spark in transition, chipping in 3.0 fast break points a night.
When it comes to shooting, both teams can light it up from deep. The Timberwolves knock down 13.8 three-pointers per game, while the Spurs allow just 13.0. Meanwhile, San Antonio connects on 13.6 threes per game, which is 1.5 more than what Minnesota typically gives up (12.1). That slight edge from beyond the arc could be the difference-maker in a tight playoff battle.
Keep an eye on the stars. For Minnesota, Julius Randle has been a steady force all season, averaging 21.1 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 5.0 assists. Naz Reid has also stepped up recently, draining 1.6 threes per game over the last 10 outings. For the Spurs, Wembanyama is the obvious headliner with his 25 points, 11.5 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 3.1 blocks per game. But De'Aaron Fox has been just as crucial down the stretch, averaging 18.6 points and 6.2 assists over the last 10 games.
Looking at recent form, the Spurs have been the hotter team. They're 7-3 in their last 10 games, scoring 116.9 points per contest while holding opponents to just 105.5. The Timberwolves are 6-4 over that same span, averaging 111.1 points but giving up 112.1. Both teams have been solid defensively, but San Antonio's ability to protect the rim—averaging 7.7 blocks per game in their last 10—could be a game-changer.
As for injuries, the Timberwolves will be without Donte DiVincenzo for the rest of the postseason due to a leg injury. That's a tough blow for Minnesota's depth, especially with the series on the line. With Game 4 tipping off, the Spurs have a golden opportunity to take a commanding 3-1 lead, but the Timberwolves will be fighting to even things up on their home court.