Timberwolves Defeat Pacers, Inch Closer to Top 6 Seed

Ayo Dosunmu leads Minnesota with 24 points in 124-104 win over Indiana.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 1:33am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the dynamic motion and energy of a basketball game, with the players' forms broken down into abstract shapes and planes of color.Minnesota's balanced scoring attack and stifling defense proved too much for Indiana in a crucial late-season matchup.Indianapolis Today

The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Indiana Pacers 124-104 on Tuesday night, led by Ayo Dosunmu's 24 points. Julius Randle and Bones Hyland also scored 19 points each for the Timberwolves, who are now in position to clinch a top 6 seed in the NBA playoffs.

Why it matters

This win is crucial for the Timberwolves as they look to secure a top 6 seed in the Western Conference playoffs and avoid the play-in tournament. The Pacers, meanwhile, are fighting to stay in the playoff race in the Eastern Conference.

The details

The Timberwolves led by as many as 20 points in the game and never trailed, thanks to strong performances from Dosunmu, Randle, and Hyland. Minnesota shot 51.1% from the field and 40% from 3-point range, while the Pacers struggled, shooting just 41.6% overall.

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

The players

Ayo Dosunmu

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

Julius Randle

A 28-year-old forward for the Minnesota Timberwolves who scored 19 points in the game.

Bones Hyland

A 22-year-old guard for the Minnesota Timberwolves who also scored 19 points in the victory.

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What they’re saying

“We knew this was a big game for us, and the guys really stepped up and delivered. Ayo was fantastic, and Julius and Bones provided a huge boost off the bench.”

— Chris Finch, Head Coach, Minnesota Timberwolves

What’s next

The Timberwolves will look to build on this win as they continue their push for a top 6 seed in the Western Conference. Their next game is on Friday, April 11 against the Denver Nuggets.

The takeaway

This win keeps the Timberwolves in the hunt for a top 6 seed in the West, which would allow them to avoid the play-in tournament. The team's balanced scoring attack and strong defense were key factors in the victory over the Pacers.