Minnesota Timberwolves Receive Huge Injury Boost

Minnesota Timberwolves Injury Return

When the news initially broke about Towns’ torn meniscus, there was substantial fear that the injury could cost him the entire season. On March 12th, Towns underwent surgery to repair his left meniscus. He was rumored for a potential return at some point in the second round of the playoffs, should the Timberwolves make it that far.

His expedited return is thanks to a successful and aggressive rehab. The former Kentucky star could return during the final week of the regular season.

Prior to his injury, Towns was enjoying a remarkable season. The 28 year-old is averaging 22.1 points, 8.4 rebounds, and three assists in 60 games played. He is also connecting on a career-best 42.3% of his 5.3 three-point attempts per game.

Towns also received an All-Star selection for the second time in his career. As a reserve for the Western Conference All-Stars, Towns impressed, scoring a game-high 50 points.

Edwards Keeps Minnesota Timberwolves Afloat

Anthony Edwards has held down the fort in Towns’ absence, averaging 25.8 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 5.6 assists in 16 games. Minnesota is 11-5 in that stretch, and has managed to keep pace with the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder in the fight for the top seed in the Western Conference.

Following last Sunday’s 127-117 win against the Los Angeles Lakers, NBA TV’s Dennis Scott asked Edwards about the Timberwolves’ playoff aspirations. The 22 year-old failed to contain his excitement and revealed that Towns would be back soon.

Managing Towns’ Injury and the Regular Season

Chris Finch and his coaching staff must now walk a fine line of caution. The aim is to reintegrate Towns into the lineup while avoiding a rushed return to play that could result in further injury.

Minnesota has three regular season games remaining, including a crucial road matchup against the Nuggets tonight at Ball Arena. The two teams share records of 55-24, yet the Timberwolves remain first in the conference thanks to a 2-1 season series lead over the Nuggets. If Minnesota is able to claim a win tonight, they would be in fantastic position to earn the first seed for the first time since the 2003-04 season.

If Towns is not able to go tonight, he will have a chance to return in one of the Timberwolves final two games. Both games will be at the Target Center in Minneapolis, against the Atlanta Hawks on Friday and the Phoenix Suns on Sunday.