Timberwolves blow out Clippers 127-101 behind Ball’s 24 points for 1st win without Edwards

The Minnesota Timberwolves secured a 127-101 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday night in NBA Cup group play, marking their first win without star Anthony Edwards. LaMelo Ball dominated the game with a season-high 24 points, while Jaden McDaniels contributed 23 points and 10 rebounds. Bones Hyland added 19 points and eight assists off the bench for the Timberwolves, who are currently 4-2.

Edwards is set to undergo arthroscopic knee surgery, which limited him to just 61 regular-season games this season. The Timberwolves demonstrated resilience after a 119-114 loss to Golden State on Wednesday, showcasing their ability to overcome adversity. Ball's three three-pointers in the fourth quarter proved decisive, as the Timberwolves executed a 20-2 surge to dominate the final period.

McDaniels delivered a two-way performance, contributing 11-of-15 shooting from the field with seven assists and six rebounds. Jaylen Clark stepped up defensively, helping force five turnovers from Clippers star Darius Garland. Despite losing four consecutive games, the Clippers struggled with injuries to newcomers Brandon Ingram and Max Strus.

Clippers rookie Keaton Wagler scored 12 points but shot poorly (2-for-11), while Rui Hachimura returned to the starting lineup after a one-game absence due to a quadriceps injury.