Injury Report Casts Shadow Over Knicks’ Visit to Minnesota
The New York Knicks are set to make their only trip to Minneapolis this season on Tuesday night, but the excitement surrounding the game has been dimmed by a disappointing injury report released on Monday. While the homecoming of Karl-Anthony Towns is expected to draw attention, the Knicks will be missing key players, including Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby, both sidelined due to injury.
Key Players Ruled Out
Brunson’s absence, attributed to “right ankle injury management,” is particularly surprising given his recent performance, where he scored an impressive 47 points in a victory over Miami just days earlier. Anunoby is dealing with a sore left ankle, while Guerschon Yabusele is out with an illness. The Knicks will also be without Miles McBride and Landry Shamet, who are nursing ankle and shoulder injuries, respectively. This lineup shakeup means the Knicks will be missing two of their top four players, significantly impacting their strategy against the Timberwolves.
Towns Takes Center Stage
With Brunson and Anunoby unavailable, the spotlight will firmly be on Towns as he returns to the Target Center. This matchup marks Towns’ second appearance against the Timberwolves since last year’s blockbuster trade that sent him to New York in exchange for Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo. In his previous return on December 19, 2024, Towns dominated, scoring 32 points and pulling down 20 rebounds in a decisive 133-107 victory for the Knicks.
A Busy Schedule Ahead
The Knicks face a grueling schedule, having played four games in the past six days. Tuesday’s game in Minneapolis is followed by an early Christmas Day matchup at 11 a.m. CT, which adds further urgency to their need for rest and recovery. By the time the holiday arrives, the Knicks will have played six games in just ten days, making the decision to rest Brunson a tactical one, despite the disappointment it brings to fans.
Fan Reactions and Starting Lineup Adjustments
The reaction from fans has been palpable, with Twin Cities sports reporter Darren Wolfson noting, “Just stinks from a fan perspective.” He highlighted that some Knicks supporters had purchased tickets weeks in advance, eager to catch Brunson’s only appearance in the area.
In light of the injuries, the Knicks’ starting five will likely feature a mix of Tyler Kolek, Jordan Clarkson, and Mitchell Robinson alongside Towns, Mikal Bridges, and Josh Hart.
Timberwolves’ Injury Status
On the Timberwolves’ side, Jaden McDaniels’ status remains uncertain as he is questionable due to a left oblique contusion sustained during their recent win over Milwaukee. Initially diagnosed with a hip injury, the fact that he has not been ruled out is a positive sign for his overall health moving forward.
Both teams are entering this matchup on a high note, with the Knicks boasting an impressive 11-2 record over their last 13 games, while the Timberwolves have won nine of their last 11. As the two squads prepare to face off, the absence of key players on the Knicks side adds an intriguing layer to what promises to be a competitive game.
