Timberwolves Gear Up for Return of Key Players After Tough Injuries

Minnesota, MN – The Minnesota Timberwolves are anticipating the return of two key players as they prepare for their first game back after the All-Star break. On Thursday, the team’s public relations confirmed that injuries to Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo are improving.

DiVincenzo, who has been sidelined since January 15 due to a left great toe sprain, has been cleared for non-contact activities. Meanwhile, Randle, who sustained a right groin strain on January 30 during a game against the Utah Jazz, has been cleared for full-contact, 5-on-5 practice.

“This is great news for Wolves fans to hear,” Timberwolves Head Coach Chris Finch said during practice. “Both Randle and DiVincenzo have been working hard to come back, and it looks like they are making significant progress.”

Although their returns are promising, neither player is expected to suit up for Friday’s game against the Houston Rockets. The Timberwolves clarified that both players will remain out as they continue their rehabilitation.

In addition to Randle and DiVincenzo, three other starters, Anthony Edwards, Mike Conley, and Rudy Gobert, were listed as questionable for the upcoming game. Edwards missed the All-Star game due to “groin soreness” and “illness,” while Conley has been out due to finger injuries. Gobert missed the previous game due to back spasms.

“All three of them were able to go today, largely at full capacity,” Finch noted. “That’s another positive sign for us.”

The Timberwolves have struggled with injuries over the last month, which has forced Coach Finch to rely on younger and less experienced players. The situation has presented challenges but also opportunities for rookies like Rob Dillingham, Jaylen Clark, and Terrence Shannon Jr. to gain valuable experience.

Minnesota currently sits seventh in the Western Conference standings, only 3.5 games away from the fourth seed and 4.0 games above the 11th. Their schedule ahead features several challenging matchups, making the potential returns of Randle and DiVincenzo crucial to their playoff hopes.

“We are optimistic about our path ahead, especially since we have one of the easiest remaining schedules in the league,” Finch added. “Having our key player back in the lineup will make a significant difference.”

As the Timberwolves continue to assess the health of their players, fans will be watching closely for updates leading up to Friday’s game. Coach Finch stated that more updates on the players’ conditions will be provided as needed, giving supporters hope for a more solid roster moving forward.