CJ McCollum career-high 43 points leads Lillard-less Portland Trail Blazers over Timberwolves

The Portland Trail Blazers started 2017 with a win despite not having their superstar Damian Lillard, beating the Minnesota Timberwolves with a score of 95-89.

The Wolves led by 12 points in the second quarter after outscoring the Trailblazers, 26-13, in the second quarter.

However, after having a slow start, the Trail Blazers bounced back in the second half led by CJ McCollum. McCollum shot 64% making 16 of his 25 shots attempted. He also had 3 steals and 1 block which is a big help for the defense in the second half of the game that made it tough for Timberwolves to set their plays. 

The Portland Trail Blazers got their 15th win of the season with a team effort. Mason Plumlee added 18 points and grabbed 8 rebounds while Evan Turner added 11 points and 4 blocks.

The Timberwolves could not get their second straight win this season after beating the Bucks. Andrew Wiggins scored 24 points and grabbed 5 rebounds and shooting 50 percent. Karl Anthony Towns had a double-double, scoring 11 points and grabbing 13 rebounds but he struggled through out the game making only three of his 15 shot attempts.

Minnesota Timberwolves are now 11-22.