Game 5s Loom Large After Thrilling NBA Playoff Duels
In the NBA playoffs, nothing is set in stone until the final whistle. Fans were once again reminded of this truth as Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns sparked their teams to Game 5-deciding victories, taking series leads and pushing their rivals to the brink.
We showed great resilience tonight. It’s not over until it’s over.– Karl-Anthony Towns
**New York Knocks Off Detroit in Controversial Finish**
- New York Knicks beat Detroit Pistons 94-93 with a last-second whistle that proved pivotal.
- The Knicks grabbed a 3-1 series lead, now one win away from progressing to the next round.
Controversy marred the final seconds as Trey Hardaway Jr.‘ long-distance attempt was initially ruled no good. However, after a review, a foul was called on Isaiah Stewart, rewarding the Knicks three free throws, giving them an insurmountable lead.
- New York: Towns 27 (9/19FG, 4/7 3Pt, 2/2FT), Brunson 32 (9/19FG, 4/7 3Pt, 2/2FT)
- Detroit: Cunningham 25 (11/20FG, 0/3 3Pt, 3/4FT), Harris 18 (7/13FG, 2/4 3Pt, 2/2FT)
**Edwards’ Heroics Propel Timberwolves Past Lakers**
- Minnesota Timberwolves topped Los Angeles Lakers 116-113, taking a commanding 3-1 lead.
- Game 5 heads back to Cali, with the Wolves one win away from sealing the series.
Trailing by 10 entering the final quarter, the Timberwolves stormed back behind Edwards’ heroics. The young guard’s clutch 3-pointer with 30 seconds left put Minnesota up by one. After a wildsequence, Josh Reaves‘ potential game-tying 3 clanked off the rim, sealing the Wolves’ victory.
- Minnesota: Edwards 43 (7/13FG, 5/10 3Pt, 14/17FT), Randle 25 (9/16FG, 3/5 3Pt, 4/6FT)
- Los Angeles Lakers: James 27 (11/17FG, 2/3 3Pt, 3/5FT), Doncic 38 (8/16FG, 5/12 3Pt, 7/7FT)
**FAQs**
Why was Game 4 in Detroit so controversial?
The main point of contention came when referee David Guthrie admitted after the game that they missed a foul call on Isaiah Stewart on Trey Hardaway Jr.’s last-second three-pointer, which led to three free throws and the Knicks’ victory.
How did Anthony Edwards turn Game 4 in Minnesota around?
Trailing by 10 entering the fourth, Edwards sparked a Timberwolves comeback with a series of big shots, culminating in a clutch three-pointer with 30 seconds left to put Minnesota up by one.
Pro Tip
Keep an eye on the role of clutch performers. In these playoffs, they’ve proven to be the difference-makers.
Stay tuned for Game 5s! Who’ll advance, and who’ll face elimination? Let us know your predictions in the comments below!