Szczerbiak scored seven of his season-high 28 points in a decisive fourth-quarter run to lift the Minnesota Timberwolves to a 100-89 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers, who began a six-game road trip.
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Blazers-Wolves: 300k 
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A former All-Star who has had injury problems the last two seasons and has become somewhat of a forgotten man in Minnesota's loaded lineup, Szczerbiak came in averaging 13.6 points but had scored just 32 in his last three contests.
"I am not pressing or anything," he said. "I am just being patient. Hopefully this can spark something and will continue."
Finding the range early, the sweet-shooting forward made 12-of-20 shots, establishing season highs in both categories. He also made two of Minnesota's four 3-pointers and eclipsed 5,000 points for his career.
"I have been getting looks this year; tonight I was able to take advantage of them," Szczerbiak said. "Portland was trapping Kevin Garnett right away. We were moving the ball back around, which certainly helped my game. Sam (Cassell) was doing a great job finding me."
The Timberwolves were nursing an 81-79 lead with just under eight minutes to go when Szczerbiak sparked a 15-6 surge with a jumper, driving layup and three-point play, the last of which gave Minnesota a 96-85 advantage with 3:31 to go.
Szczerbiak picked up the slack for Latrell Sprewell, who scored just five points in 25 minutes.
Garnett had 19 points and 19 rebounds and Cassell added 19 and 13 assists for Minnesota, which has won eight of its last 10 games.
The Wolves also got a boost from reserve Eddie Griffin, who continued his strong play with 13 points and 13 rebounds. Griffin helped Minnesota shoot 50 percent (45-of-90) and enjoy a 51-39 advantage on the glass.
"He was an unbelievable find for us," Szczerbiak said. "He is a huge asset for our team."
Darius Miles scored 17 points off the bench and Zach Randolph added 16 and 14 boards for the Trail Blazers, who have lost four straight road games.