Second half dooms Wolves in loss to Knicks: 5 things that stood out

Second Half Dooms Wolves in Loss to Knicks: 5 Things That Stood Out

The Timberwolves struggled defensively and on the boards in an ugly second half that led to a 137-114 loss against the Knicks at Madison Square Garden.

Game Overview

The Wolves (4-4) started strong with a 13-4 run and held a 58-54 lead at halftime, but the Knicks (5-3) dominated after the break, outscoring Minnesota 83-56 in the final two quarters.

New York pulled ahead midway through the third quarter, and Minnesota couldn’t mount a comeback due to their difficulties stopping the Knicks and securing defensive rebounds.

Key Performers

OG Anunoby led New York with 25 points.
Jalen Brunson contributed 23 points, 7 rebounds, and 10 assists.
Four other Knicks players scored in double figures.
Julius Randle scored 32 points for the Wolves against his former team.
Anthony Edwards was quiet in his return to action.

Notable Stats

The Knicks shot 54% from the field and 45% from three-point range.
The Wolves shot a respectable 48% from the field and matched the Knicks with 19 made threes.
Minnesota actually went to the free throw line more often than New York.
Turnovers were similar with 14 for the Knicks and 17 for the Wolves.

Final Difference

The major factor in the lopsided 23-point defeat was rebounding, where the Timberwolves consistently failed to finish defensive possessions by securing the board.

"Defense and rebounding were the primary culprits in an ugly second half for the Timberwolves."

The Knicks’ control of the glass and ability to finish defensive sequences sealed the game in their favor.

Author’s Summary

The Timberwolves’ second-half defensive lapses and poor rebounding allowed the Knicks to dominate and secure a decisive victory, despite Minnesota's solid shooting performance.

Sports Illustrated — 2025-11-06