Jefferson guides the Jazz to vital win in play-off race.
Al Jefferson tied a career-high 40 points and had 13 rebounds and six assists as he guided the Utah Jazz to an important 107-100 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Utah still trail the Los Angeles Lakers by a half-game for the eighth and final play-off spot in the Western Conference, but with the Lakers securing the win over the Golden State Warriors on the same night, it was imperative the Jazz won too.
Jefferson, who will be a free agent at the end of this season, was well supported by Mo Williams and Randy Foye who scored 16 points apiece.
Minnesota had 23 points from J.J. Barea, but were unable to prevent the loss in the absence of injured center Nikola Pekovic.
The Timberwolves face the Phoenix Suns on Sunday, while the race is hold on for the Jazz until Monday, when they face Minnesota again.
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