There aren’t moral victories in the playoffs.
That’s true and fine, but if you’re a Minnesota Timberwolves fan right now, you’ve got to be feeling pretty good.
Yes, your team fell 104-101 after Jimmy Butler missed a shot in the last few seconds. But for the Wolves, who haven’t made the playoffs since 2003-04, this confirms that they have a chance in this series. The “eight seed vs. a one seed” narrative can be thrown out.
Minnesota outscored Houston 54-50 in the second half. And to lose by just three when James Harden poured in 44 points is promising.