In the 25-year history of Timberwolves basketball, it hasn’t been better than the first quarter of tonight’s game against the Lakers.
Minnesota put up 47 points in the opening frame against Los Angeles, a franchise record for any quarter, and didn’t look back from Staples Center, finishing the Lakers off 113-90.
The Kevins were once again fantastic for the Wolves, with Martin and Love combining for 52 points to lead Minnesota’s starters, all of which found double figures.
Ricky Rubio corralled a rebound with five minutes left in the fourth to secure his second career triple-double, posting 12 points, 10 boards, and 14 assists.
The Lakers, still without Kobe Bryant as he recovers from a torn Achilles tendon, looked flat and heard boos in that first quarter. They pulled within 14 going into the fourth, but Minnesota came out firing, outscoring LA 12-4 to open the final 12 minutes.
The Lakers were led by Bryant-replacement Steve Blake, who had 19.
It’s Minnesota’s first win against the Lakers since March 6, 2007.
The Wolves are back in action tomorrow night, once again at Staples Center, for a 9:30 p.m. tip with the Clippers.
