NBA Playoffs Update: Timberwolves Take 2-1 Lead Over Warriors; Celtics Reduce Deficit To 2-1 Against Knicks

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Anthony Edwards scored 36 points, including a crucial 3-pointer with 1:19 left, leading the Minnesota Timberwolves to a 102-97 victory over the Golden State Warriors. This win gives the Timberwolves a 2-1 advantage in their second-round playoff series. Julius Randle contributed significantly with a triple-double, recording 24 points, 12 assists, and 10 rebounds.

Despite Jimmy Butler's impressive performance of 33 points, seven assists, and seven rebounds, and Jonathan Kuminga's 30 points off the bench, the Warriors struggled without Stephen Curry. Curry is sidelined due to a strained left hamstring sustained in Game 1. Kuminga made 11 of his 18 shots as Golden State adjusted their lineup in Curry's absence.

Warriors coach Steve Kerr emphasised the need for strong defence, but his team failed to make crucial stops late in the game. Draymond Green fouled out with just over four minutes remaining while attempting to block Jaden McDaniels' shot. The call was contentious upon review. Green expressed frustration by sprinting to the bench and donning his warmup jacket.

Edwards showed resilience after spraining his left ankle in Game 2 by hitting another decisive 3-pointer with just over six minutes left. Jaden McDaniels also contributed with a key shot from beyond the arc at the three-minute mark. Randle overcame a slow start, missing his first four attempts from deep before making one that put Minnesota ahead by ten.

The Boston Celtics secured their first win in the Eastern Conference semifinals by defeating the New York Knicks 115-93 in Game 3. Jayson Tatum led with 22 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists. Payton Pritchard added 23 points as Boston excelled from long range, making half of their attempts after struggling in previous games.

The Celtics quickly built a commanding lead, going up by as much as 31 points. Tatum and Pritchard each made five shots from beyond the arc. Jaylen Brown scored 19 points while Derrick White added another 17 for Boston. The Celtics aim to even the series on Monday night before heading back to Boston for Game 5.

Knicks' Shooting Woes

Jalen Brunson scored 27 points for New York while Karl-Anthony Towns contributed with a double-double of 21 points and 15 rebounds. However, the Knicks struggled from three-point range and free throws, hitting only five of their attempts from deep and shooting under seventy percent from the line.

Boston's strong start saw them make their first four shots from beyond the arc en route to a high-scoring opening quarter. They maintained this momentum throughout the game, effectively silencing an enthusiastic crowd that included many high-profile attendees.

The Celtics' ability to respond after two losses highlights their resilience during this playoff run. Their improved shooting performance was crucial against New York's defence which had previously caused them trouble.

The Timberwolves will look to extend their series lead when they face Golden State again on Monday night at Chase Center. Meanwhile, Boston aims to continue its momentum against New York as they seek another victory before returning home for subsequent games.