With Minnesota’s payroll already stretched, guard Ayo Dosunmu has complicated the Timberwolves’ summer math by exploding for 43 points in Saturday’s Game 4 win, his latest statement ahead of free agency. Dosunmu told reporters he relishes “playing meaningful basketball” in only his second postseason appearance and recently gained “closure” on the deadline deal that moved him from Chicago to Minnesota. Chicago Sun-Times columnist Joe Cowley notes the Bulls could pursue a reunion if Minnesota cannot meet Dosunmu’s next contract.
The Timberwolves’ victory was tempered by season-ending injuries to Donte DiVincenzo (Achilles) and a knee hyperextension for Anthony Edwards. Still, Dosunmu’s performance drew praise from veteran teammate Julius Randle, who said, “I didn’t know he was that damn good.”
In Denver, the Nuggets trail the Wolves 3-1, but Nikola Jokic stressed the club’s playoff pedigree. “We’ve been in this situation before,” the two-time MVP told the Denver Gazette, recalling previous 3-1 comebacks, including the 2020 bubble rally against Rudy Gobert’s Jazz.
Portland remains out of this year’s playoffs, yet injured star Damian Lillard insists the Trail Blazers are “closer than people think,” citing roster depth and two-way talent. Oregon Live reports Portland’s front office is preparing a trade package for Giannis Antetokounmpo if the Bucks forward signals willingness to extend in the Pacific Northwest. NBC Sports’ Kurt Helin calls such an outcome “highly unlikely,” noting the Western Conference gauntlet.
While the postseason unfolds, the Jazz are focused on the May 10 draft lottery. Utah still holds Cleveland’s future picks from the Donovan Mitchell trade, and The Deseret News points out a first-round exit by the Cavaliers—currently tied 2-2 with Toronto—could influence both Mitchell’s extension decision and the Jazz’s long-term draft haul.
Source: Hoops Rumors
