Game Preview
The San Antonio Spurs and Minnesota Timberwolves enter Sunday's matchup with nearly identical records, setting the stage for an intriguing Western Conference showdown. The Spurs hold a slight 13-12 edge, riding a two-game winning streak, while the Timberwolves are 13-11 after their latest victory.
San Antonio has been a consistent force offensively, averaging 111.6 points per game on 45.7 percent shooting from the field. Their three-point shooting, hovering around 34.8 percent, has been a shade below average but compensated by a solid 80.4 percent mark from the free-throw line. The Spurs have excelled on the glass, grabbing nearly 45 rebounds per contest, while dishing out 28 assists to showcase their unselfish play.
However, San Antonio's defensive struggles have kept games tight, allowing 113.2 points per game. Their last 10 contests have seen an improvement, holding opponents to 118.6 points on 45.5 percent shooting, a trend they'll hope to continue against the high-scoring Timberwolves.
Minnesota has been a 54.2 percent team thus far, fueled by a balanced offensive attack averaging 109.9 points. Their shooting percentages of 46.3 percent from the field and 37 percent from deep have kept defenses honest. The Timberwolves have taken care of the ball well, committing just over 15 turnovers per game, while crashing the boards for 42.5 rebounds.
Over their last five outings, Minnesota has caught fire, winning four of five behind a stifling defense that's held opponents to 90.2 points per game on 46 percent shooting. Their improved 11.2 steals and 45.6 rebounds per game have fueled this recent surge, setting up an intriguing clash of styles against the high-octane Spurs.