The Minnesota Timberwolves opened their 2020-21 season with a 111-101 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday night.
The Timberwolves’ opener got off to an auspicious start as D’Angelo Russell was late for a pre-game COVID test. Although he came off the bench, he quickly made an impact throwing what Timberwolves hope is one of many nice feeds to Karl-Anthony Towns.
DLo ➡️ KAT
We like how that looks pic.twitter.com/r4VpvAZeVl
— FanDuel Sports Network North (@FanDuelSN_NOR) December 24, 2020
Although the Wolves had the star power, the Pistons raced out to a 34-25 lead after the first quarter. The second quarter belonged to the Wolves however thanks to a strong effort from their bench including the debuting Anthony Edwards.
Welcome to the NBA, @theantedwards_!!
đź‘Źđź‘Źđź‘Ź pic.twitter.com/McNvJHCKlz
— FanDuel Sports Network North (@FanDuelSN_NOR) December 24, 2020
The No. 1 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft had a solid debut, putting up 15 points, four rebounds and four assists in 25 minutes and helped Minnesota go into the locker room down 57-56 at halftime.
After the Pistons extended their lead in the third quarter, the Wolves went to work on the back of Russell, who put up 18 points, five rebounds and four assists.
3LO hit that one from Wayzata!!#Timberwolves pic.twitter.com/mJkqRTIFk4
— FanDuel Sports Network North (@FanDuelSN_NOR) December 24, 2020
The Wolves also got a great performance from Malik Beasley, who started the game 0-for-5 from the floor but came alive in the second half for a team-high 20 points to help Minnesota tie the game up midway through the fourth quarter.
BUCKLE UP pic.twitter.com/p3poQbnK5K
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) December 24, 2020
As the Wolves and Pistons battled down the stretch, Minnesota put together an 11-0 run in the final five minutes to help secure the season-opening victory.
After the win against Detroit, the Wolves will host the Utah Jazz on Saturday night.
