Headline: Timberwolves’ Dynamic Duo Dominates Warriors as Golden State Faces Elimination in Playoffs

SAN FRANCISCO (AP)— Anthony Edwards celebrated by waving his arms at his sides after sinking his second straight 3-pointer in a span of just 33 seconds during the third quarter, helping the Minnesota Timberwolves seize control and pull away from the Golden State Warriors.

Edwards has been dominating Golden State’s defense regardless of the scenario, and he’s not the only one doing damage—Julius Randle is, too.

Head Coach Steve Kerr continues to emphasize that the Warriors’ success in their playoff series against the Timberwolves hinges on their defensive performance. However, their defense fell short again, resulting in a 117-110 loss on Monday night, marking a second consecutive defeat at the Chase Center.

With this setback, the Warriors now find themselves in a 3-1 hole in the best-of-seven Western Conference series and must fight to avoid elimination as they prepare to head to Minneapolis for Game 5 on Wednesday.

Edwards scored 30 points while Randle added 31, both shooting 11 for 21 from the field, and together they drained 10 3-pointers, contributing to the Timberwolves’ impressive 16 of 34 from beyond the arc.

Randle consistently found success attacking the basket in Game 4, and Edwards contributed significantly with 11 points during a 17-0 run in the third quarter.

This potent duo is proving to be too much for Golden State to handle, especially in the absence of the injured Stephen Curry, who usually helps maintain balance for the team. Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green can’t shoulder the entire load.

After a triple-double in the 102-97 victory in Game 3, Randle tallied 31 points—19 of which came by halftime. He had previously scored 24 points in Game 3 after recording 18 and 24 in the first two games.

Containing Edwards was equally crucial for the Warriors, who managed to limit the explosive guard to five of 14 shooting in the first half Monday, just two days after he erupted for 36 points, making 13 of 28 shots along with five 3-pointers.

However, a late 3-pointer from Edwards at the halftime buzzer brought Minnesota to within 60-58, shifting the momentum in their favor.

He later maneuvered through the defense for a floater and a three-point play at the 7:45 mark of the third quarter, followed by hitting two consecutive 3s, bringing his total to six.

Before the game, Kerr specifically identified Edwards and Randle as key concerns.

“We need to devise a strategy to contain them,” he noted, “particularly in the closing moments.”