Down 2-0 in the Western Conference Finals, the Minnesota Timberwolves needed more than just home-court energy in Game 3 — they needed a spark. And they found it in an unexpected source: rookie guard Terrence Shannon Jr.
Before Friday night’s matchup, Shannon had barely touched the floor this postseason, logging just 20 total minutes — and only two in the series against the Oklahoma City Thunder. But with their backs against the wall, head coach Chris Finch made a bold move, giving Shannon a real shot off the bench. It paid off in a big way.
Playing in front of a fired-up crowd at the Target Center, the Timberwolves came out blazing in the first quarter. Anthony Edwards led the charge, as expected, but Shannon’s surprising presence gave the team an extra boost that helped fuel a dominant 143-101 victory. Minnesota not only stayed alive in the series, but they also made a powerful statement — they weren’t going down without a fight.
Shannon played 13 minutes — the most he’s played in a postseason game — and made every second count. He dropped a playoff career-high 15 points, shooting 5-of-8 from the field, including one three-pointer, and went a perfect 4-of-4 from the free-throw line. He also added two rebounds, an assist, and a steal, showing off his well-rounded skill set and high motor.
After the game, Anthony Edwards couldn’t hold back his praise.
“T.J. came in and brought ultimate energy,” Edwards said. “We can’t ask for nothing more. He came in and made all the right plays, attacked the basket with aggression. He came up big for us tonight.”
Coach Finch echoed that sentiment, explaining what led to Shannon’s increased minutes.
“(He’s a) guy who can stretch the floor in transition, a downhill player, got a good body,” Finch said. “Just a different kind of player than we have at other positions.”
And that difference made all the difference.
Shannon, drafted 27th overall by Minnesota in 2024 out of Illinois, had a relatively quiet rookie season, averaging 4.3 points in 32 games. But if Game 3 is any indication, he’s just getting started. His fearless attitude and ability to rise in the moment were exactly what the Timberwolves needed to shift the momentum of the series.
For fans watching the blowout win, Shannon’s performance was one of the most exciting stories of the night. Seeing a young player seize the opportunity on such a big stage is always thrilling, and it gives Minnesota a fresh X-factor heading into the rest of the series.
With Game 4 on the horizon, one thing’s for sure — Terrence Shannon Jr. has earned himself more time on the floor. And if he continues to bring that same fire, he just might help push the Timberwolves even further in this playoff run.