For the third and final time this season, the LA Clippers will face the Minnesota Timberwolves, led by superstar Anthony Edwards. Although Minnesota is the tenth seed at 17-17, they have beat the Clippers in their previous two meetings.
On Friday, November 29th, the two teams met for the first time, and Minnesota walked away with a one-point victory. Two of the Clippers’ franchise centerpieces, Kawhi Leonard and Norman Powell, were ruled out due to injury, forcing their co-stars, James Harden and Ivica Zubac, to step up and initiate a win.
Furthermore, Zubac played remarkably, with 16 points, 13 rebounds, and eight-made field goals against one of the greatest defensive centers in Rudy Gobert. Additionally, Harden dominated his part by scoring 20 points and dishing out 10 assists. Given the one-point loss, these contributions from the Clippers’ stars weren’t enough, as the rest of the squad failed to meet the requirements of victory.
In less than a week, the Clippers and Timberwolves faced off again. This time, Minnesota outbeat the Clippers to start the game, leaving them in the dust til the clock hit zero. Head coach Tyronn Lue quickly waved the white flag as the starters could not get their shots to fall.
With Powell and Leonard out once again, Harden finished with five points on one made shot in ten attempts. Zubac did not contribute much as well, as he only scored four points in 26 minutes.
Though Lue and the Clippers have already forfeit the season series, they should be focused on defeating a playoff-caliber roster. The Timberwolves’ record must be taken with a grain of salt, as Edwards has the mentality to take down whatever stands in his way.
Is Kawhi Leonard suiting up for his second game of the season?
Per the official NBA injury report, Kawhi Leonard is not listed, making him ready for an intense battle between the Clippers and Timberwolves. This news eases concern for the fans, as Leonard left multiple distressful comments following his home debut.
Full injury report for the Clippers vs Timberwolves
After a major home win against Atlanta, the LA Clippers have no new injuries to report. Cam Christie, Trentyn Flowers, and Kai Jones remain out due to G-League assignments. In addition, forward P.J. Tucker is ruled out, as he remains away from team activities.
For Minnesota, rookie Rob Dillingham is out with an ankle sprain, and Jesse Edwards is out due to his two-way contract in the G-League. Listed as questionable are Luka Garza (ankle sprain) and Josh Minott (illness).