Anthony Edwards scores 43 points as the Timberwolves’ top Lakers. The Knicks, Celtics and Pacers are the pivotal NBA playoffs to win.
Timberwolves Edge Lakers 116-113 took a 3-1 series lead
Anthony Edwards erupted 43 points, winning the Minnesota Timberwolves narrowly 116-113 over target center Los Angeles Lakers. Edwards added nine rebounds and six assists to help the Wolves overcome their 10-point fourth-quarter deficit.
Julius Randle tipped with 25 points, while Jaden McDaniels posted a double double (16 points, 11 rebounds) to lift Minnesota. Despite Luka Doncic’s 38-point effort and LeBron James’ double double (27 points, 12 rebounds), the Lakers rammed through the steam after JJ Redick’s controversial decision to play the same five players throughout the second half.
Austin Reeves had a shot that tied it with a buzzer, but his three-pointer missed, putting the Lakers on the brink of elimination.
The Knicks outperform the pistons with claws
Jalen Branson scored 32 points, including 15 points in the fourth quarter, as the New York Knicks edged the Detroit Pistons 94-93. Karl-Anthony Towns hit a go-ahead three-pointer with 47 seconds left to seal the victory.
Detroit had the opportunity to steal the game, but the controversial no-call was frustrated about Josh Hart’s clash with Tim Hardaway Jr., a Pistons fan on the left side of the buzzer. Cade Cunningham led Detroit with 25 points, but the loss marked the NBA record in a nine-straight home playoff loss.
The Celtics defeat Magic 107-98 and move within one victory of advance
The Boston Celtics controlled the series with a 107-98 victory over the Orlando Magic. Jason Tatum dominated with 37 points and 14 rebounds, with Jalen Brown (21 points, 11 rebounds), Christaps Porsey (19 points) and Derrick White (18 points) providing strong support.
Boston was almost perfect from the free throw line, sinking 30 of 32 attempts. Orlando’s Paolo Banchelo (31 points) and Franz Wagner (24 points) tried to rally magic, but the Celtics’ stretching calm made a difference.
The Pacers crush Bucks 129-103 to lead 3-1
Indiana attended an offensive clinic and shot over 60% off the field to hammer the Milwaukee Bucks 129-103. Miles Turner led eight pacers in double digits with 23 points and four blocks.
Tyreese Halliburton scored 17 points, 15 assists and eight rebounds in a dominant all-round performance, while Andrew Nenbird scored 20 points.
Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetocomo fought hard with 28 points and 15 rebounds, but the losses were exacerbated by great fear.
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