Anthony Edwards made a strong return from injury, scoring 18 points off the bench as the Minnesota Timberwolves secured a 104-102 victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 1 of their Western Conference semifinal series. Julius Randle contributed 21 points as Minnesota held off a late push from San Antonio.

The game, played in San Antonio, saw the Timberwolves strengthened by Edwards’ comeback after a knee injury that was initially expected to sideline him for weeks. Head coach Chris Finch praised Edwards for his disciplined performance despite being on a minutes restriction, noting his ability to stay within the flow of the game.

San Antonio led by three points heading into the final quarter, but Edwards sparked a turnaround by scoring 11 of Minnesota’s first 19 points in the fourth. A decisive 7-0 run, highlighted by a three-pointer from Mike Conley, gave the Timberwolves a crucial advantage.

The Spurs attempted a late comeback, with Victor Wembanyama narrowing the gap and Dylan Harper bringing the team within striking distance. However, a last-second three-point attempt missed, sealing the win for Minnesota.

Jaden McDaniels and Terrence Shannon Jr each added 16 points for the Timberwolves, while Naz Reid and Conley chipped in 12 points each. Randle and Rudy Gobert controlled the boards with 10 rebounds apiece.

For San Antonio, Harper led with 18 points, while Stephon Castle and Julian Champagnie added 17 each. Wembanyama recorded a triple-double with 11 points, 15 rebounds, and 12 blocks despite struggling from long range.

Game 2 of the series is set to take place in San Antonio, with subsequent games scheduled in Minneapolis.

In the Eastern Conference, the New York Knicks continued their impressive playoff run with a dominant 137-98 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 1 of their semifinal series.

Jalen Brunson led the charge with 35 points, including 27 in the first half, as the Knicks overwhelmed Philadelphia from the start. The team maintained its momentum from the previous round, where it had already delivered a series of commanding performances.

The Knicks became only the second team in league history to end one playoff series and begin another with consecutive wins by margins of at least 30 points. Their consistency and scoring depth have made them a formidable contender.

Head coach Mike Brown praised his team’s focus and execution, highlighting their ability to maintain intensity regardless of the scoreline.

New York’s recent performances have been historic, as they became the first team to win three consecutive playoff games by at least 25 points.

Game 2 between the Knicks and 76ers is scheduled to take place in New York, where the home side will look to extend their advantage in the series.