Excitement is brewing among Minnesota Timberwolves fans as Karl-Anthony Towns looks set to make a comeback to the team’s lineup. With just two games left in the season, hopes are high that Towns will join the Wolves on the court. The big man has missed eighteen games this season due to a knee ailment.
Shams Charania of The Athletic reports that Towns is gearing up to return to the starting lineup. The Wolves aim to have him back before the 2023–24 season ends, preparing him for postseason action.
In a recent tweet, Charania mentioned, “Minnesota’s Karl-Anthony Towns is on track to return Friday vs. Hawks. He’s been upgraded to questionable. Wolves entering weekend tied for No. 2 in the West.”
Without Karl-Anthony Towns, the Timberwolves have been extremely shaky
Despite Towns’ absence from the lineup, the Wolves have managed well with a 12-6 record during this period. Anthony Edwards played a significant role, particularly in offense, carrying much of the load. One positive note is that the team’s standings weren’t significantly impacted by the absence of the big man.
This season, Towns has averaged 22.1 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 3.0 assists across 60 games, as reported by the NBA website. Notably, 42.3% of his shots come from beyond the arc.
Karl-Anthony Towns was having an impressive season before his injury against the Portland Trail Blazers. The left knee injury required surgery to repair a lateral meniscus tear.
Initially expected to return at the beginning of the Western Conference playoffs’ first round, Towns has now received clearance for 5-on-5 scrimmages.
Naz Reid has filled in for All-Star Towns as the starting forward since the injury. The Wolves’ strong record during this time showcases Reid’s success in the role.
In his stint as a starter, Reid has averaged 17.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists. He also boasts a 42.6% accuracy rate from beyond the arc, showcasing his skill as a shooter. Reid’s consistent productivity has been a boon for the Wolves this season, proving himself a reliable asset for the team.
