The Charlotte Hornets defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves, 113-106, at Spectrum Center on Thursday evening.
The Timberwolves (32-40) came into Thursday's contest looking to essentially play spoiler to a Hornets (32-39) squad still hanging on to hopes of an eighth seed in the Eastern Conference. Minnesota was effective in its mission, matching Charlotte bucket for bucket in the first and trailing by only three at the half. After another deadlock in the third, the Hornets finally opened up a 10-point lead with 1:42 remaining. Despite a modest late surge by the visitors, the hosts were able to hold off them off for the win.
Karl-Anthony Towns paced the Timberwolves with a 21-point, 16-rebound double-double that also included six assists, two blocks and one steal. Andrew Wiggins delivered 20 points, five rebounds, two assists and one steal. Dario Saric posted 15 points, seven rebounds and one assist. Tyus Jones furnished 14 points, seven assists, two rebounds and two steals. Gorgui Dieng and Josh Okogie contributed matching 10-point tallies while hauling in five and three rebounds, respectively.
Kemba Walker led the Hornets with 31 points, adding six assists and five rebounds. Malik Monk followed with a bench-leading 14 points and also provided four rebounds. Jeremy Lamb and Marvin Williams offered matching 13-point totals, with Lamb also hauling in 10 rebounds. Miles Bridges finished with 11 points, 12 rebounds, four assists and two steals. Willy Hernangomez registered 10 points, seven rebounds and two assists.
The Timberwolves next pay a visit to the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday night, while the Hornets remain home to face the Boston Celtics on Saturday evening as well.
