The Minnesota Timberwolves looked like they were going to be able to force overtime in Tuesday night’s game against the New Jersey Nets after Michael Beasley’s jumper with 7.8 seconds left in the contest pulled the teams even at 105 apiece.
Unfortunately Deron Williams, who had a career-high 21 assists, decided it was time for him to score as he hit a step-back jumper with 1.7 seconds left in the contest to give the Nets a 107-105 victory and ensure the Timberwolves will now have to lug around an 11-game losing streak.
The Timberwolves were without both Kevin Love and Darko Milicic, who stayed home due to injuries, but somehow still won the rebounding battle 57-44. That would typically mean the Wolves should have won, but when Anthony Randolph and Nikola Pekovic combine for 11 turnovers, the ending will rarely swing in favor of the Wolves.
Beasley put forth a nice all-around effort with 20 points, 11 assists and seven rebounds, but he made just seven of his 17 attempts from the field and was unable to hit a three-point attempt as time expired. Randolph again had a double-double in the absence of Love with 20 points and 10 rebounds, but his six turnovers certainly didn’t help.
Brook Lopez feasted inside due to the absence of Milicic and Love, posting 30 points, 12 rebounds and two blocks. Aside from Williams’ career-night in assists, he also dropped in 18 points.
The Wolves will host the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday night.