SAN FRANCISCO – Following a standout performance with a triple-double, Julius Randle led the Minnesota Timberwolves to a crucial victory over the Golden State Warriors with a score of 102-97, establishing a 2-1 lead in the Western Conference semifinals series.
Randle, who finished the game with 24 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds, became the second player in Timberwolves history to achieve a triple-double in the playoffs, joining Kevin Garnett.
With this performance, added to his 24 points and 11 assists in Game 2, Randle became the first player in the franchise to record multiple games of 20 points and 10 assists in the same postseason.
I feel like I have a lot of different tools, you know? It’s about using my mind and taking what the defense gives me. If they don’t double-team me, I score. If they double-team me, I find my teammates.
Julius Randle
In the final quarter, Randle showcased his ability to distribute the ball, accumulating five assists and contributing to Minnesota outscoring Golden State 33-24.
His decision-making in critical moments was key to keeping the Warriors at bay. He found Jaden McDaniels with a pass for a three-pointer that extended the Wolves’ lead from three to six points with 3:20 remaining. Then, he assisted Rudy Gobert for a dunk and an additional free throw, increasing the lead to seven points with 2:05 on the clock. Finally, he assisted Anthony Edwards for a three-pointer that sealed the victory.
It was incredible. Finding everyone on the cuts. Finding the open man over and over again. Pushing the pace. It’s what we ask of him, and he’s been doing it at a high level. I can’t ask for anything better. He’s making the game so much easier for me, so I appreciate having him here.
Anthony Edwards
McDaniels also praised Randle, highlighting the difficulty he poses for the opposing team to defend him.
This performance continues a positive streak for Randle, who arrived at the Timberwolves in a trade involving Karl-Anthony Towns and Donte DiVincenzo.
He has truly transformed our season: his game, his decision-making, playing in different positions on the court. He gives us almost another point guard. He is everything to us. He has been everything to our change. He is everything to our team.
Chris Finch, Minnesota coach
Randle also drew two of Draymond Green’s six fouls in the second half, leading to the Warriors player’s ejection.
Randle’s influence in the final quarter was crucial, as Butler and Jonathan Kuminga kept Golden State in the game. Despite the Warriors seeming to be adapting to playing without Stephen Curry, they showed improvements in their game.
I felt good about the way the game went tonight, we just couldn’t close it out. Give them credit. They made all the plays in the fourth quarter and Randle and Edwards really got hot, and we just couldn’t overcome them once we fell behind… The formula [without Curry] looks good. We’ll have some adjustments to make. But I like the matchup. I like what we’re doing.
Steve Kerr, Warriors coach
Naz Reid summed up Randle’s importance to the team with a simple phrase: “He’s a grown man.”
