3 small mistakes caused a Timberwolves loss to the Warriors

What Towns admitted about the Warriors ability to capitalize from Timberwolves 16 TO’s, can be extended – at least – to other 3 errors made in this 108-116 defeat:

“When you play the defending champions like that, it’s the small mistakes, the little things that really add up.”

Let’s get started with the first thing you can’t ignore when you’re facing this team.

CORNER THREE’S

Except for the initial 12-0 scoring run built on their up-tempo mode, the Warriors tear down every Wolves comeback’s hope by relocating quickly off flare screens on the corners and nailing effortless 3’s.

Some of these shots are not even in the script of a specific set but are created on second-chance opportunities. Rose is floating around instead of trying to locate Curry on the left corner.

Warriors scored 7 corner 3’s on 12 attempts, they’re averaging 5 attempts from the corner spots per game during this 2018-19 season. Forget to box-out or over helping the strong side on skip passes can be lethal with Golden State.

BAD NIGHT FROM THE PERIMETER

The Timberwolves shot with 28 percent from long range, which is not the worst part of this outcome. Out of 25 attempts, 20 of them from the 3 point line were efficiently contested by the Dubs. A good portion of these conclusions was also in rhythm coming off drive and kick or flare/deep cut actions, but the Warriors met them early reducing their chances to score points off turnovers.

Despite the Wolves lower number of turnovers, Golden State doubled them for points off turnovers.

BULLY BALL IS NOT THE ULTIMATE SOLUTION

Minnesota scored 52 points in the paint, one of the few areas where they outscored the Warriors, working quite efficiently down low.

Even if Towns dominated on wedge actions and is becoming wiser on double teams, there’s no way to beat the Warriors relying heavy on post-up plays, as long as they have terrific post up defenders and good helpers.

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