The astronomical odds Minnesota blew after choke job vs. Grizzlies
What in the world was that, Minnesota? The Timberwolves were looking poised to take Game 3 away from the Memphis Grizzlies, dominating them nearly all first half long. They built a massive 26-point lead at one point. Patrick Beverley of all people was outplaying Ja Morant! (much to LeBron’s delight). While Morant and co. got it to within single digits before the end of the half, the T-Wolves went and got it back up to double digits in no time.
And then, chaos. Morant led the Grizzlies to an epic 21-0 run in the second half to steal the game from the Timberwolves’ noses. It was one of the biggest collapses in NBA history, and Memphis had to overcome astronomical odds to do so. Prior to this game, teams that led by as much as 25 points were 380 – 8 in the postseason. (via ESPN Stats and Info)
The Timberwolves led by as many as 26 in the first half, but Memphis cut it to 7 at the break. That included a 12-point 2nd quarter for Minnesota, tied for their fewest points in any quarter this season.
Over the past 25 postseasons, teams to lead by 25 at any point are 380-8. pic.twitter.com/jLkXkycLHC
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) April 22, 2022
For anyone who can’t be bothered to do that match, that’s a near-97% win rate for teams leading by 25 points. It should’ve been near-impossible for the Timberwolves to blow it… and yet they did. In fact, they blew TWO 20-point leads in the same game. It’s a hell of an effort by the Grizzlies, but much of the talk will be around this Wolves team.
This has to be a demoralizing gut punch for the Timberwolves. They gave their best punch against a top contender, but failed to close it out when it mattered most. Whether they can bounce back from a terrible loss like this will determine the future of this franchise. Will they hang their heads in shame, or will they use this as motivation to come back better?
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