Thu Apr 10 21:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Timberwolves Face Must-Win Game Against Grizzlies After Crushing Loss
**MEMPHIS, TN** – The Minnesota Timberwolves suffered a devastating loss to the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday, blowing a 24-point lead in the fourth quarter and triggering memories of their 2022 playoff collapse against the Memphis Grizzlies. The team’s chances of avoiding the play-in tournament now hinge on Thursday’s crucial matchup against those same Grizzlies, many of whose key players from the 2022 series remain on the roster.
The collapse mirrored the Wolves’ recurring playoff struggles, raising questions about their mental toughness under pressure. While players like Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle insist they’ll move on, the lingering impact of Tuesday’s defeat is undeniable. The Bucks’ successful use of a zone defense in the fourth quarter exposed a vulnerability the Wolves must address before facing the Grizzlies.
Thursday’s game is a virtual elimination game for the Timberwolves. A loss would leave them needing other teams to falter to secure a playoff berth, while a win opens a path to a higher seed. The specter of their past struggles against Memphis adds significant pressure, as the Grizzlies, despite recent internal turmoil including the firing of their coach, still possess a formidable lineup.
Coach Chris Finch and his team are determined to learn from their mistakes, emphasizing the need to adapt and counter the defensive strategies that proved so effective against them on Tuesday. The Timberwolves hope that, this time around, the lessons learned from this devastating loss will translate into a much-needed victory.
First Piper 