In a game in which fouls were called for everything ranging from smacks and slaps to tickles and spittle, the Timberwolves still found a way to get legally physical with the Utah Jazz in their 116-105 victory Saturday night at the Delta Center.

Gary Trent, who had played in only five of the Wolves' past 22 games, bulled his way into the low post in the final quarter to challenge and warp the Jazz's defense. The power forward's strong play -- he scored 13 of his 17 points after halftime and six in a row at a pivotal point in the fourth -- kept the Wolves in front despite them setting season highs for fouls committed (36) and free throws allowed (44).

In classic Utah fashion, the officiating crew of Tommy Nunez, Don Vaden and Marc Davis had the Jazz in the bonus with 10:04 left in the final quarter.

By the time Utah closed to within 102-99 with 4:11 left, Karl Malone and cohorts had made only three baskets but 13 free throws in the period.

The Wolves, who average 21.1 fouls, had 25 by the end of the third quarter; previously, their season high of 31 came in the double-overtime game at Indiana. Yet it wasn't entirely slanted Utah's way -- the Jazz was called for only two fewer fouls and gave up one fewer free throws. In all, the 2-hour, 26-minute game was stuffed with 70 fouls, 87 free throws and 70 free throws made.