The Minnesota Timberwolves have had their share of ups and downs in their franchise history, but when it comes to playoff performances, a triple-double remains one of the rarest achievements. In fact, only two players have ever recorded a playoff triple-double while wearing a Wolves jersey — Kevin Garnett and Karl-Anthony Towns.
Two different eras. Two different styles. But both players delivered historic moments that showcased their all-around brilliance when it mattered most.
First, there’s Kevin Garnett, the heart and soul of the Timberwolves for more than a decade. In the 2004 Western Conference Semifinals against the Sacramento Kings, KG delivered one of the greatest performances in NBA playoff history. Facing elimination pressure, Garnett posted an unforgettable stat line: 32 points, 21 rebounds, and 5 blocks, but more notably, in that same playoff run, he also registered a triple-double earlier in the postseason with 24 points, 21 rebounds, and 10 assists.
It wasn’t just the numbers — it was how he did it. Garnett’s triple-double came through sheer willpower. He was everywhere on the floor, facilitating offense, dominating the glass, and anchoring the defense. That 2004 playoff run remains the deepest the Wolves have ever gone, reaching the Western Conference Finals, and KG’s all-around dominance was the reason why. His intensity, leadership, and versatility were on full display, and that triple-double cemented his legacy as not just a franchise icon, but an all-time NBA great.
Fast forward to the modern era, and Karl-Anthony Towns has now joined Garnett in this exclusive club. In the 2024 NBA Playoffs, during a second-round showdown, Towns recorded an impressive triple-double: 26 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists, reminding everyone just how skilled and versatile he is.
Towns has always been known for his offensive talent — a big man with guard-like skills, able to shoot from deep, post up, and facilitate from the high post. But in the playoff spotlight, when defenses tighten and the margin for error shrinks, he found a way to impact the game across every area. His passing vision, often underrated, was critical in keeping the offense flowing, and his decision-making under pressure showed how much he has matured.
What makes these triple-doubles so special is how rare they are — especially in playoff basketball, where defenses are tougher, games slow down, and every possession is fought for. For the Wolves, a franchise still carving its place in the league’s history, these moments are precious.
Garnett’s triple-double was about grit, leadership, and setting the tone for a franchise that had never experienced real playoff success before. Towns’ triple-double is about resilience, evolution, and the hope of building something lasting with this new generation of Wolves.
Only two players have achieved it — and both did it in ways that perfectly reflected their eras and their personalities. Garnett with his fire and ferocity. Towns with his skill and smoothness.
Two triple-doubles. Two eras. One franchise still dreaming big.
