The Minnesota Timberwolves showcased their dominance in Game 3 against the Phoenix Suns as they secured a commanding 126-109 victory to take a 3-0 lead in the series. The Wolves' strong start and resilient performance proved too much for the Suns to handle.

Minnesota entered the game determined to maintain their stranglehold on the series, despite having lost both regular season matchups in Phoenix. Head Coach Chris Finch emphasized the importance of getting off to a great start and playing with the same physicality that had propelled them earlier in the series.

The Timberwolves heeded their coach's words, jumping out to an early 17-8 lead, capitalizing on Karl-Anthony Towns' excellent performance. The Suns rallied back to tie the game at 22, taking advantage of foul trouble faced by Towns and Rudy Gobert. However, Anthony Edwards stepped up and delivered a spectacular performance, scoring 16 points in the first half alone.

Foul trouble plagued the Timberwolves throughout the first half, enabling the Suns to generate consistent offense from free throws. Nevertheless, Minnesota's stellar defense held Phoenix to just 36.8% shooting, allowing them to maintain a 34-32 lead at the end of the first quarter.

The game remained closely contested in the second quarter, with neither team able to establish a lead greater than eight points. Edwards continued to shine, engaging in a fierce battle with Bradley Beal. At halftime, the Timberwolves held a 59-53 advantage, with Edwards leading the way with 16 points.

Coming out of the break, Minnesota surged ahead, establishing their largest lead of the game at 11 points. Nickeil Alexander-Walker's impressive shooting from beyond the arc expanded the lead to 15, and the Wolves' lead eventually ballooned to 19 points. The Suns called a timeout as boos echoed from their disappointed fans.

The Timberwolves continued to dominate in the third quarter, outscoring the Suns 36-20 and building a commanding 22-point lead heading into the final quarter. Although the Suns mounted a comeback in the fourth quarter, reducing the lead to 12 points, it proved too little, too late.

Edwards stole the show once again, finishing the game with a game-high 36 points on 12-of-23 shooting, including 18 points in the fourth quarter. His outstanding performance marked his seventh playoff game with at least 30 points, tying Kevin Garnett for the most in franchise history. Gobert contributed 19 points and 14 rebounds, while Towns scored 18 points and grabbed 13 rebounds.

For the Suns, Bradley Beal led the way with 28 points, followed by Kevin Durant with 25 points and Devin Booker with 23 points. Foul trouble plagued the Timberwolves throughout the game, creating different rotations, but they managed to stay composed and focused on their game plan.

Minnesota's exceptional defense, which has been the league's best throughout the season, proved crucial once again, stifling the Suns' offensive efforts. The Wolves' defensive rating and third-quarter surges have been instrumental in their success so far in the playoffs.

Amidst Phoenix's defensive focus on Edwards, the young star showcased his growth and maturity by making smart decisions and finding open teammates. His playmaking ability and court vision impressed his teammate Rudy Gobert, who spoke highly of Edwards' development.

With a commanding 3-0 series lead, the Timberwolves will look to complete the sweep in Game 4 at Footprint Center in Phoenix. The team's determination and focus have propelled them to this point, and they will aim to maintain their underdog mentality throughout the remainder of the series.

Fans can catch the action on TNT or Bally Sports North, with tip-off scheduled for 8:30 PM CT on Sunday night.