The Timberwolves played on without point guard D'Angelo Russell for a second consecutive game. They did so Sunday against Utah with Jordan McLaughlin starting at Russell's point position, with Jaylen Nowell and Anthony Edwards there to help out as well.
McLaughlin played 17 minutes in Russell's absence during Friday's 134-124 loss at Phoenix. He had played less than three minutes total in the three previous games after his return from the NBA's health and safety protocols.
He impressed Wolves coach Chris Finch with his hustle, including a play in which he dove across the court near the end of Friday's third quarter and tipped the ball to Edwards for a buzzer-beating shot.
"He hasn't really played like that this year," Finch said. "When you're struggling, those are the plays you have to make to try to get yourself going. He did an outstanding job."
Russell didn't play Friday or Sunday because of a shin contusion sustained Thursday at Golden State, McLaughlin and Edwards both were called upon at the point in Phoenix after Jaylen Nowell found early foul trouble.
Nowell replaced McLaughlin seven minutes into Sunday's game.
Edwards had a career-high 10 assists playing that role, but after Friday's game he said he doesn't like playing the point. He called himself "a scorer first" who'd rather not initiate the offense.
Before Sunday's game, Finch was asked what he can do to help get Edwards comfortable there if needed.
