Knicks Secure Decisive Victory Over Timberwolves
In a highly anticipated NBA clash on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, the New York Knicks delivered a commanding performance, defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves 135-112 at Madison Square Garden. The game, which saw the return of a superstar and a significant trade reunion, captivated fans as both teams entered with identical 4-3 records and two-game winning streaks.
Star Returns and Injury Updates
The matchup was marked by crucial injury updates for both sides. For the Minnesota Timberwolves, star guard Anthony Edwards made his much-awaited return to the lineup. Edwards had been sidelined for four consecutive games since suffering a hamstring strain on October 26. Despite initial concerns that he might miss up to two weeks, Edwards was cleared to play just ten days after his injury, participating in shootaround earlier in the day. In his limited three appearances this season, the 24-year-old three-time NBA All-Star was averaging 25.7 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. His presence was a significant boost for the Timberwolves.
On the New York Knicks’ side, five-time All-Star center Karl-Anthony Towns was also cleared to play, overcoming an illness that had initially listed him as questionable. Towns, who has been a pivotal part of the Knicks’ offense, entered the game averaging 20.4 points, 13.1 rebounds (ranking fourth in the NBA), 3.1 assists, and 1.0 blocks in his seven appearances this season. Other injury notes included Timberwolves’ Terrence Shannon Jr. being out with left foot soreness, while Rob Dillingham and Donte DiVincenzo were available despite face mask injuries.
A Blockbuster Trade Reunion
The game carried an extra layer of intrigue due to the blockbuster trade in 2024 that sent Julius Randle to the Timberwolves and Karl-Anthony Towns to the Knicks. Both players faced their former teams, adding a personal rivalry to the high-stakes contest.
- Julius Randle (Timberwolves): The former Knicks star put on an impressive display against his old squad, recording 32 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists on 12-21 shooting from the field, including 3-6 from beyond the arc.
- Karl-Anthony Towns (Knicks): Towns also made his mark, securing his seventh double-double of the season, the most in the NBA. His performance was crucial in the Knicks’ dominant victory.
- Donte DiVincenzo (Timberwolves): Another former Knick, Donte DiVincenzo, contributed 21 points for Minnesota.
- Jalen Brunson (Knicks): The All-NBA maestro continued his strong season, averaging 29.0 points and 5.6 assists per game coming into the contest.
Team Dynamics and Pre-Game Insights
Heading into the game, both teams showcased distinct strengths and weaknesses. The Timberwolves boasted the league’s third-best three-point shooting percentage at 40.2%, a factor that was expected to challenge the Knicks’ perimeter defense, which had allowed the third-most three-pointers per game (15.4). However, Minnesota’s defensive efficiency ranked 20th in the NBA.
The Knicks, despite having the fourth-worst field goal percentage in the league at 43.5%, compensated with a strong interior defense, allowing the sixth-lowest points in the paint per game (44.9). Pre-game betting odds favored the Knicks by 3 to 3.5 points, with an over/under set at 228.5 total points. SportsLine’s projection model, for instance, leaned towards the Under, predicting 228.7 combined points, but also highlighted Mikal Bridges (Knicks) to score over 15.5 points.
How to Watch
The game was broadcast nationally on ESPN at 7:30 p.m. ET. For viewers impacted by the ongoing contract dispute between Disney and YouTube TV, alternative streaming options were available. Fans could access the game via a free 5-day trial with DIRECTV or opt for a Sling Orange day pass for $4.99, providing 24 hours of access to ESPN and ESPN2, as reported by digitaltrendstoday.com.
Ultimately, the New York Knicks proved to be the stronger team on the night, securing a convincing win in a game filled with compelling narratives and star power.
