Key Takeaways:
- Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 26 points in 27 minutes
- The Raptors played without Kawhi Leonard, sidelined by swelling in his left knee just an hour before tip-off
- Minnesota remains unbeaten at 3-0, winning each of their first three games by margins of 25, 22, and 23 points
Match Analysis
Anthony Edwards delivered an outstanding performance, amassing 26 points in just 27 minutes, as the Minnesota Timberwolves opened their home campaign with a 117-94 triumph over the Toronto Raptors. The Timberwolves displayed impressive shooting efficiency, converting 56% of their attempts from the field and 48% from beyond the arc. The victory kept Minnesota unbeaten with a 3-0 record, having won their opening matches by significant double-digit margins of 25, 22, and now 23 points.
FIRST DUB AT HOME https://t.co/YGGCbSXIsO
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) October 26, 2026
Key Player Contributions
LaMelo Ball contributed 15 points, including an efficient 4-of-5 from three-point territory. Despite facing foul trouble that restricted his court time to 16 minutes, Ball made a notable impact in his regular-season home debut. Jaden McDaniels also made his presence felt, recording 14 points, six rebounds, and three blocks. Rudy Gobert anchored Minnesota’s defensive efforts, securing 13 rebounds while the team limited Toronto to just 9-for-29 shooting in the first quarter, including only one successful three-pointer from 10 attempts.
Impact of Leonard’s Absence
The Raptors were forced to navigate the game without Kawhi Leonard, whose absence due to swelling in his left knee was announced only an hour before tipoff. Stepping into the starting lineup, Ja’Kobe Walter topped Toronto’s scoring with 22 points. R.J. Barrett and Immanuel Quickley added 20 and 19 points respectively, but the team trailed by double-digits late in the first quarter and found themselves as many as 32 points adrift during the closing stages.
Fan Reception and Upcoming Fixtures
Former Timberwolves player Kyle Anderson, now with Toronto, was warmly applauded by the Minneapolis crowd when he entered the game in the third quarter. The 13-year NBA veteran, who appeared in 27 playoff contests for Minnesota, did not score during his 10 minutes on the floor.
| Team | Top Scorer | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Next Fixture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota Timberwolves | Anthony Edwards | 26 | 1 | 3 | At Cleveland on Monday night |
| Toronto Raptors | Ja’Kobe Walter | 22 | 4 | 2 | Host Orlando on Wednesday night |
Statistical Overview
Minnesota dominated the boards, outrebounding the Raptors 49-34, and established an effective early lead, holding Toronto to a solitary three-pointer in the opening quarter. While the Timberwolves’ offensive firepower was evident, their defensive discipline prevented Toronto from gaining any momentum. The Raptors, dealing with Leonard’s last-minute absence, were unable to mount a consistent challenge and ultimately endured their first defeat of the campaign.
