Game recap
The Cleveland Cavaliers surged in the second half to defeat the Minnesota Timberwolves 146-134 on Saturday night, ending Minnesota’s four-game winning streak. Led by Donovan Mitchell, who poured in 28 points and added four 3-pointers, Cleveland outpaced a dynamic Minnesota attack and built a decisive cushion as the clock wound down.
Mitchell’s scoring burst came as Cleveland flipped the script after a closely contested first half. The Cavaliers matched Minnesota shot-for-shot but elevated their offense in the third and fourth quarters, where they consistently found open looks and converted at a high rate. The result was a high-scoring affair that showcased both teams’ offensive firepower.
Key performances
Donovan Mitchell (Cavaliers)—A 28-point night with four made 3-pointers, Mitchell provided the shooting punch Cleveland needed to extend its lead. His ability to attack the rim and space the floor was a recurring problem for the Timberwolves.
Supporting help—Cleveland benefited from a balanced attack, with multiple contributors chipping in 12+ points to supplement Mitchell. The Cavaliers’ depth allowed them to sustain scoring momentum even as Minnesota tried to tighten the game in stretches.
Wolf Pack (Timberwolves)—Minnesota leaned on its own efficient offense, matching Cleveland’s pace for much of the night. Yet defense and turnovers in key moments limited their ability to complete a comeback, and Cleveland’s late push sealed the result.
Turning point
In the second half, Cleveland’s offense found its stride. A sequence of timely 3-pointers and fast-break points created separation, and the Cavaliers were able to maintain momentum even when Minnesota made runs. Mitchell’s shot-making, coupled with timely baskets from role players, delivered the critical margin that the Timberwolves could not erase in the final minutes.
What this means for both teams
The Cavaliers improved to pull even in the standings with a statement win over a competitive Timberwolves squad. For Cleveland, the victory reinforces their capability to win high-scoring games and rely on a diversified scoring attack beyond Mitchell. Minnesota, on the other hand, will look to regroup after a tough defeat that snapped their streak, taking lessons from the defensive lapses and late-game execution issues that decided the outcome.
Stat line snapshot
Team statistics reflected a fast-paced, high-efficiency affair. Cleveland’s offense clicked in the second half, while Minnesota kept pace but ran short of stops when it mattered most. Rebounds, assists, and turnovers tallied in a way that underscored both teams’ commitment to pushing tempo and executing in pivotal moments.
Bottom line
The Cavaliers’ 146-134 win over the Timberwolves showcased a star-driven night from Donovan Mitchell complemented by strong supporting play. It was a game defined by offensive rhythm, late-round execution, and a decisive second-half push that gave Cleveland the edge and left Minnesota aiming to bounce back quickly on the road.
