Sports Scene returns with basketball as the Minnesota Timberwolves are starting to play like the team critics envisioned when they acquired All-Star Jimmy Butler in the off-season. The T-pups battling with San Antonio for the third best record in the tough Western Conference. One of the reasons for Minny's recent fine play is the performance of Karl-Anthony Towns, the former Rookie of the Year, has been on fire recently, helping his team rack up 10 wins in their last 13 games -- and could improve on that as they hosted the New York Knicks.

But it is the visitors that are in control early, Kristaps Porzingis hitting the three-ball, as New York grabs a 7-point lead. 17 for the Zinger.  

Then Tim Hardaway Jr. is able to find the range --- the Knicks guard keeping his team in front by 8.  

Right before the half, Minny would cut the margin to 2, as Towns, finds a streaking Jimmy Butler -- it is 57-55 at recess.  

After the restart, the Big K-A-T is able to dial long distance -- and he puts his team in front by 1. 23 points, 15 rebounds, and 9 assists for the former number one overall pick.  

A couple minutes later, and the T-pups take charge, as Taj Gibson spins baseline on Porzingis and gets the hoop and harm. 17 for the former Chicago Bull.  

The Knickerbockers keep it close, and are able to retake the lead -- as Jarret Jack hits the three-ball corner pocket.  

And Hardaway keeps them in control as he also nails a long ball. 86-83 game, 16 for Timmy.  

Minnesota go on a 14-2 run over the next few minutes and take charge -- Towns capping off the spurt with another three-ball.  

And the hosts seal things late, as Jamal Crawford starts to cook, getting fouled after nailing the three -- and a chance at a four-point play. Minny wins it 118-108, their fourth straight "W" and 11th in 14 games.

In other games Cleveland blew a 22-point lead in falling to Indiana. The Cavs have lost three straight. Golden State used a 13-4 run in the fourth to pull away from Milwaukee. Houston pummelled Phoenix. John Wall and Bradley Beal each had 30 in Washington's win over Orlando. Anthony Davis returned from an ankle injury and scored 36 in leading New Orleans over Portland. Denver topped Memphis.