The favored Timberwolves (43-19) had trouble shaking free from the Trail Blazers (17-43) during the first half, with Minnesota holding just a six-point advantage at halftime. Portland then managed to make a one-point dent in its deficit during the third quarter, but the hosts' 9-0 run over the first 3:35 of the final period finally offered some breathing room. The T-Wolves then went on to lead by at least six points until there was 1.1 seconds remaining.

Trail Blazers played the Timberwolves tough through three quarters, trailing only by six going into the final period. However, Minnesota's 9-0 run over the first 3:35 of the fourth quarter provided some key separation and set the stage for the hard-fought win. Portland managed 25 points off turnovers in defeat but also gave the ball way three more times than the hosts and were whistled for nine additional fouls.

Anfernee Simons led the Trail Blazers with 34 points, complementing them with 14 assists and five rebounds. Duop Reath supplied 26 points, three rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block. Dalano Banton turned in 18 points, seven boards and four assists. Kris Murray furnished 14 points, five rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block. Rayan Rupert recorded 13 points and six rebounds.

Rudy Gobert paced the Timberwolves with a 25-point, 16-rebound double-double that included three blocks and one steal. Mike Conley delivered 19 points, seven assists, two rebounds and three steals. Karl-Anthony Towns supplied 14 points, four rebounds, one assist and two blocks. Anthony Edwards and Nickeil Alexander-Walker posted 13 points apiece, with Edwards adding six assists, four rebounds and one steal. Naz Reid posted 12 points, five rebounds and one block.

The Trail Blazers head back home to host the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday night, while the Timberwolves hit the road and visit the Indiana Pacers on Thursday night.