Imagine a team missing its top scorer and leading rebounder, yet still dominating a game from start to finish. That's exactly what the Minnesota Timberwolves did in their stunning 139-106 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on January 13, 2026. But here's where it gets controversial: Can a team truly be considered elite if they rely so heavily on their stars, or is their depth the real MVP? Let's dive into this game recap and explore the surprising dynamics at play.
Julius Randle led the charge with 29 points, but it was the Timberwolves' scorching shooting that stole the show. They set a new season-high with 22 made 3-pointers on 43 attempts, shooting an impressive 59.8% from the field overall. This offensive explosion came despite the absence of Anthony Edwards, sidelined for foot maintenance, and Rudy Gobert, serving a one-game suspension for flagrant fouls. Gobert's suspension stemmed from his sixth flagrant foul point in a nail-biting 104-103 win over the San Antonio Spurs just days earlier. Meanwhile, Coach Chris Finch returned to the sidelines after missing the Spurs game due to illness.
The Bucks, already struggling to contain Minnesota's offense, faced their own challenges. Myles Turner, a key defensive presence, sat out due to illness, marking his first missed game of the season. Giannis Antetokounmpo put up a solid 25 points, eight rebounds, and five assists, but it wasn't enough to stop the Timberwolves' momentum. Minnesota took control early, leading 76-45 at halftime—the largest halftime lead in franchise history for a road game. They extended their advantage to a staggering 41 points in the second half, showcasing their depth and resilience.
Bones Hyland stepped up with a season-high 23 points, while Naz Reid and Jaden McDaniels contributed 19 and 17 points, respectively. Gobert's absence opened the door for rookie Joan Beringer, who seized the opportunity with career highs in minutes (30), points (13), and rebounds (5). And this is the part most people miss: Beringer's performance raises questions about the Timberwolves' future lineup strategies. Could he be a hidden gem waiting for more playing time?
For the Bucks, this game marked their only home contest in a grueling seven-game stretch. Returning from a 2-2 road trip, they now face back-to-back challenges in San Antonio and Atlanta. As for the Timberwolves, they hit the road again to face the Houston Rockets on Friday, riding high on their sixth win in seven games.
Controversial question for the audience: Is Minnesota's success a testament to their depth, or is it a fluke without their star players? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
