Timberwolves Clinch Playoff Berth with Win Over Pacers

Minnesota snaps 3-game skid, secures postseason spot with dominant performance in Indianapolis

Apr. 8, 2026 at 4:32pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the dynamic movements and lines of a basketball game, with the players' forms broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes.The Timberwolves' playoff-clinching win over the Pacers showcases the team's resilience and competitive drive as they prepare for the postseason.Indianapolis Today

The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Indiana Pacers 124-104 on Tuesday night, clinching a playoff berth in the process. Ayo Dosunmu led the Timberwolves with 24 points in the victory, which snapped a three-game losing streak for Minnesota.

Why it matters

The Timberwolves' playoff berth marks a significant milestone for the team, which has struggled to consistently make the postseason in recent years. This win over the Pacers keeps Minnesota in contention for a higher seed and a more favorable first-round matchup.

The details

The Timberwolves jumped out to an early lead and never looked back, dominating the Pacers throughout the game. Dosunmu had an efficient scoring night, while the Timberwolves' balanced attack overwhelmed Indiana's defense.

  • The game took place on Tuesday, April 8, 2026 in Indianapolis.

The players

Ayo Dosunmu

A 24-year-old guard for the Minnesota Timberwolves who led the team with 24 points in the win over the Pacers.

Minnesota Timberwolves

An NBA team based in Minneapolis, Minnesota that clinched a playoff berth with the victory over the Indiana Pacers.

Indiana Pacers

An NBA team based in Indianapolis, Indiana that lost to the Timberwolves 124-104 on Tuesday.

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What they’re saying

“This was a big win for us to get back on track and clinch our spot in the playoffs. The guys really stepped up tonight.”

— Chris Finch, Head Coach, Minnesota Timberwolves

What’s next

The Timberwolves will look to build momentum heading into the playoffs, while the Pacers will try to rebound from this loss and secure their own postseason berth.

The takeaway

The Timberwolves' playoff-clinching victory over the Pacers showcases the team's ability to bounce back and compete at the highest level, keeping them in contention for a more favorable first-round matchup.