The Minnesota Timberwolves enjoyed a dominating performance against the Phoenix Suns as Kevin Durant and company failed to match up to the level of aggression the Timberwolves came up with during the game.
While fans can expect a much better outing from Durant and company, Karl-Anthony Towns is relishing his role for this series against the Suns. While he understands that the Slim Reaper is a player you can only hope to slow down, his outstanding defensive efforts in Game 1 is something he hopes to execute throughout the seven-game series they will be having.
Minnesota Timberwolves’ Karl-Anthony Towns loves playing against Kevin Durant in Game 1
Towns was left to fend for himself when he squared off against Durant for much of Game 1. He understands that he can only hope to slow down Durant, who eventually finished the lopsided loss with 31 points, seven rebounds, one assist, one steal, and one block.
While many would troll Towns for his inability to contain Durant, the Kentucky product talked about the role and his thoughts about the matchup.
Per Jerry Zgoda of the Star Tribune:
“It’s fun when you get to compete against the best of the best,” Towns said after practice Monday. “Last year with Jokic, it was really fun to guard, possibly, the three-time MVP and a guy I have tremendous respect for. This year, it’s the same thing. I’ll take whatever challenge is needed for us to win. If I’ve got to guard the best player, I’ll do whatever it takes. I’ve never backed down from a challenge, and I’ll continue to do that every single night for the rest of my career.”
It’s encouraging for Minnesota Timberwolves fans to see Towns taking on the unenviable task of containing Durant with such passion. While it’s unlikely that he’ll be able to stop Durant from scoring in Game 2, the attitude he’s approaching the game with is necessary for the Wolves to overcome a strong Suns side.
Moreover, his sacrifice was worth it as Anthony Edwards did his thing on the court. Ant-Man had a fantastic game, scoring 33 points to go with his nine rebounds, six assists, and two steals. Towns also got his share of touches, finishing with a stat line of 19 points, seven boards, four dimes, and a steal.
Timberwolves fans will be excited to see Towns take on Durant and the Suns again in Game 2, and they’ll be hoping for similar results.
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