Injury Woes Impact Knicks and Timberwolves Ahead of Tuesday Night Clash
The stage is set for a pivotal matchup in Minneapolis, but both the New York Knicks and the Minnesota Timberwolves will be missing key players due to injuries. As the teams prepare to face off, the absence of Jaden McDaniels from the Timberwolves’ lineup looms large.
McDaniels Out with Oblique Contusion
Around noon on Tuesday, the Timberwolves confirmed that McDaniels would sit out due to a left oblique contusion that sidelined him during their recent come-from-behind victory over the Milwaukee Bucks. The 26-year-old’s status is currently day-to-day, with hopes that he could return for the Christmas night game against the Denver Nuggets. In addition to McDaniels, veteran forward Joe Ingles has been ruled out for personal reasons. While Ingles typically sees limited action unless brought in for critical situations, his absence adds to Minnesota’s challenges.
Knicks Struggle with Multiple Injuries
On the other side of the court, the Knicks are grappling with their own injury concerns. Both point guard Jalen Brunson and forward OG Anunoby are sidelined, with Brunson out for “right ankle injury management” and Anunoby nursing a sore left ankle. The Knicks will also be without Guerschon Yabusele due to illness, while Landry Shamet (shoulder) and Miles McBride (ankle) remain unavailable.
Potential Starting Lineups
As the teams look to adapt, the starting lineups are likely to reflect these absences. For the Timberwolves, here’s how they might align for the 7:10 p.m. CT tip-off:
Wolves
– Mike Conley
– Anthony Edwards
– Mikal Bridges
– Josh Hart
– Karl-Anthony Towns
– Rudy Gobert
Conley’s inclusion in the starting five seems logical after he played a pivotal role in Minnesota’s second-half surge against the Bucks, helping the team secure its ninth win in 11 games. However, the Wolves could also opt to start Jaylen Clark, a move that would bolster their defense in light of McDaniels’ absence, given his reputation as one of the top wing defenders in the league.
For the Knicks, they may consider a few different combinations, possibly opting for Jordan Clarkson over Tyler Kolek or sticking with Mitchell Robinson. The decision will hinge on their strategy, whether they prefer a larger lineup or a more agile approach. Last time these teams clashed, Robinson put forth a strong performance, contributing eight points, ten rebounds, and three blocks in just 16 minutes off the bench during the Knicks’ commanding 137-114 victory at home.
As both teams navigate these injury hurdles, the upcoming clash promises to be an intriguing contest filled with unexpected twists and turns.
