Timberwolves Prepare for Spotlight Rematch Against Thunder
Friday night marks a significant showdown in the NBA as the Minnesota Timberwolves square off against the Oklahoma City Thunder in a Western Conference Finals rematch. This highly anticipated game will be broadcasted nationally on Amazon Prime, but it carries a unique flavor for local fans.
Local Voices Take Center Stage
Adding to the excitement, the play-by-play commentary will be provided by Michael Grady, who has solidified his role as the primary voice for the Timberwolves on FanDuel Sports Network North. Grady will be accompanied by Brent Barry as the lead analyst, with Allie Clifton serving as the sideline reporter. For those tuning in through the local broadcast, Alan Horton will take over Grady’s usual role alongside analyst Jim Petersen.
This is the second season in which the Timberwolves have had to navigate dual broadcasting duties. Grady’s ascent to national prominence has meant he now calls fewer local games, having previously worked multiple ESPN matchups last season. This year, he is expected to cover about one-third of the Timberwolves’ games, while Horton continues his long-standing radio duties on KFAN FM 100.3 and iHeartMedia Minneapolis. When Grady is on the national call, Horton remains solo on radio, but when he transitions to television, his commentary with Petersen is simulcast for radio listeners.
A Crucial Test for the Timberwolves
Beyond the broadcasting details, Friday’s clash serves as a crucial litmus test for the Timberwolves, who currently stand at 2-8 against teams with winning records this season. In stark contrast, they boast an impressive 15-2 mark against teams with sub-.500 records.
The Thunder, leading the NBA with a remarkable 25-2 record, are a formidable opponent. Their two losses came by narrow margins, with a 121-119 defeat to Portland and a 111-109 loss against San Antonio in the NBA Cup semifinals last Saturday. Oklahoma City showcased their resilience with a decisive 122-101 victory over the Clippers just the night before.
The Timberwolves and Thunder have faced off once already this season, with the Wolves falling to Oklahoma City 113-105 on November 26. This rematch is particularly significant given the Thunder’s prior dominance over the Timberwolves in last season’s conference finals, where they swept Minnesota in five games.
Injury Updates Looming
As the game approaches, the Timberwolves are monitoring the status of their star player, Anthony Edwards. He is currently listed as questionable due to “right foot maintenance,” having missed the last three games with an undisclosed foot injury. However, there is optimism surrounding his potential return for this key matchup. Additionally, veteran guard Mike Conley will miss his fourth consecutive game due to right Achilles tendinopathy.
Tip-off is set for after 8:30 p.m. CT, and as the Timberwolves prepare to face off against the league’s top team, all eyes will be on how they perform under the national spotlight.
