Terrence Shannon Jr. posted a career-high 33 points in Wednesday’s 132-120 loss to the Orlando Magic at the Kia Center. Despite the defeat, Shannon emphasized continuous improvement. “It felt good. Just being out there on the court, but I could have been better defensively and offensively. You get better learning each day,” he said.
Shannon highlighted key moments that energized him and his teammates. “I try to bring energy when I’m playing, do what I can to help the team win,” he added. He also acknowledged his focus on improving his passing and decision-making. “I’ve always been a good passer, but reading the game and slowing down has been important. I feel like I did a good job of that today.”
The Timberwolves played without Anthony Edwards and several starters, including Rudy Gobert and Julius Randle, limiting their depth. Shannon credited Jaden McDaniels’ return from a six-game absence for adding balance to the lineup. “Everything. His presence changes the whole dynamic of the game. He didn’t want to sit out and now he’s back even better,” Shannon said.
Shannon remains confident about the team’s progression as the playoffs approach. “It’s never too late until it’s too late to make things click. We just have to take it one day at a time and get better,” he said.
On the court, Shannon carried a heavy scoring load, tallying 29 points in the second half and connecting on five of seven 3-point attempts. He added five assists, though the Timberwolves fell short against a balanced Magic attack led by Paolo Banchero’s 20 points and eight rebounds and Desmond Bane’s 18 points and six assists. Franz Wagner contributed 17 points, while Goga Bitadze came off the bench with 14 points and 15 rebounds.
Orlando stretched a 47-47 halftime tie to a 63-53 lead and eventually pushed the advantage to 24 points. The Magic shot 53.7% from the field and secured their fourth straight win, moving up to seventh in the Eastern Conference. Minnesota, now 47-33, will visit Houston on Friday, while the Magic travel to Chicago.
Shannon emphasized readiness and teamwork moving forward. “I work out every day for my teammates, chilling more. Whenever my name is called, just got to be ready,” he said, reflecting his focus on maintaining consistency heading into the postseason.
