NBA roundup: Timberwolves sweep Suns out of play-offs as Knicks win

The Minnesota Timberwolves, led by Anthony Edwards' 40 points, eliminated the Phoenix Suns from the NBA play-offs with a 122-116 victory, advancing to the second round for the first time in two decades.

Minnesota managed to overcome a combined 72 points from Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, making them the first team to secure a spot in the second round.

Their next opponents will be either the Denver Nuggets or the Los Angeles Lakers, with the Nuggets currently leading the series 3-1.

Edwards, aiming for the second round for only the second time in franchise history, bounced back from a slow start, scoring nine points in the first half.

"I understood the importance of this game," Edwards shared with TNT. "I knew I had to step up and carry the team on my back to secure the win."

Booker contributed 49 points, while Durant added 33 in a game that saw 23 lead changes, with neither team holding a lead of more than six points.

The season ended disappointingly for Phoenix, who had high expectations for a deep play-off run after acquiring Bradley Beal to form a "Big Three" with Durant and Booker in Arizona.

Luka Doncic showcased his skills with a triple-double performance, recording 29 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. However, it was the trio of George, Harden, and the Clippers who ultimately prevailed in the closing minutes of the game.

George made a crucial three-pointer in the second half, giving the Clippers a 107-105 lead with just under two minutes remaining. Harden then converted a three-point play, helping the Clippers secure the victory.

Harden emphasized the importance of not falling behind 3-1 in the series, highlighting the Clippers' determination to avoid such a deficit.

Meanwhile, the Knicks found success in Philadelphia as Jalen Brunson's remarkable 47-point performance set a new franchise record for a playoff game. The Knicks now hold a 3-1 lead over the Sixers.

Brunson also contributed 10 assists in the Knicks' 97-92 win, while Joel Embiid and the Sixers faced the possibility of elimination.

OG Anunoby played a significant role in the victory, scoring 16 points and grabbing 14 rebounds, while showcasing impressive defense against Embiid. Despite his outstanding individual performance, Brunson remained focused on the team's goals and refused to dwell on personal achievements.

In Indianapolis, the Indiana Pacers dominated the Milwaukee Bucks with a barrage of 22 three-pointers, securing a 126-113 victory and a 3-1 series lead.

Myles Turner had a standout performance, setting a playoff career high with seven three-pointers and contributing 29 points. Tyrese Haliburton also played a crucial role, adding 24 points to the Pacers' impressive offensive display.

The Bucks, missing key players such as Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard due to injuries, faced additional setbacks when Bobby Portis was ejected in the first quarter after a scuffle with Andrew Nembhard.

Despite the efforts of Brook Lopez and Khris Middleton, who scored 27 and 25 points respectively, the Bucks now face the challenge of staying alive in the series as they prepare to host game five.