The Minnesota Timberwolves fell to the Phoenix Suns 104-103 in a pivotal Western Conference contest Wednesday night at Target Center. The Wolves are now 17-18 and are 2.5 games behind Dallas for the eighth and final playoff spot in the West.

Kevin Martin led the Wolves with 20 points on 6-16 shooting, but missed a shot with time expiring from close range that would have won Minnesota the game. Nikola Pekovic had 17 points and 12 rebounds.

The Wolves activated forward Chase Budinger for the first time this season before the game. He missed the first 34 games of the season after having surgery on his left knee before the preseason. He played 11 minutes and scored six points on 2-3 shooting.

The Wolves are back in action Friday night when they host the Charlotte Bobcats at Target Center.

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