The Minnesota Timberwolves take on the Phoenix Suns at the Footprint Center on Wednesday, hoping to make an upward surge in the Western Conference standings.
The hosts will be bolstered by the arrival of Kevin Durant, who is set to play his fourth game for his new franchise. Earlier this month, the 34-year-old went down with an ankle sprain prior to the team’s clash against the Oklahoma City Thunder and is now back in the fold as the Suns look to hold on to their fourth-seed spot.
Their clash also marks the four-game series between these two sides, and the Suns will look to notch up their third win against the Timberwolves. With Karl-Anthony Towns and Anthony Edwards ready and raring to go, expect a high-scoring contest.
It also helped Minnesota that they have momentum on their side. They head to Arizona on a four-game winning streak, while the Suns have won two of their last four skirmishes. That said, they are still better placed than their opponents with a 40-35 record.
On that note, here is a look at the projected starters, the injury report, and the predictions ahead of the marquee Wednesday clash.
Phoenix Suns Expected Lineups And Injuries Updates
With Durant expected to return, the Suns will field a fully healthy unit against the Timberwolves. News of his imminent suit-up was reported by The Athletic’s Shams Charania, saying:
“After missing 10 games with a sprained ankle, Phoenix Suns All-NBA star Kevin Durant will make his return Wednesday vs. the Minnesota Timberwolves barring a setback.”
After missing 10 games with a sprained ankle, Phoenix Suns All-NBA star Kevin Durant will make his return Wednesday vs. the Minnesota Timberwolves barring setback, league sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. pic.twitter.com/vePOrtWS7W
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 28, 2023
Chris Paul (G), Devin Booker (G), Torrey Craig (F), Kevin Durant (F), and Deandre Ayton (C) are expected to be the starters for Phoenix.
Minnesota Timberwolves Expected Lineups And Injuries Updates
The Timberwolves rested Karl-Anthony Towns in their win over the Sacramento Kings, but per ESPN, his probable status will see him play against the Suns. Anthony Edwards, who has been dealing with a right calf strain, was listed as probable as well.
Jaylen Nowell and Taurean Prince were listed as questionable, while sharpshooter Matt Ryan will be out of the game due to illness.
Phoenix Suns vs. Minnesota Timberwolves Predictions
The last time these two sides squared off against each other, the Suns were short-handed and didn’t have Booker and Paul in the mix. The Timberwolves beat the Suns 116-112.
Now, the outcome comes heavily in favor of the Suns, who are now beefed up with all the team’s stars taking the floor. Booker has been leading from the front with 28.1 points, 5.4 assists, and 4.6 rebounds, and adding more firepower is Durant, who is averaging an impressive 29.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 5.3 assists this season, despite missing significant time on the hardwood.
The Timberwolves will be banking on Edwards to start hot from the opening minute and hope that Gobert will bring his A-Game to the fore against a tough offensive outfit as the Suns. As far as picking a winner goes, expect the Suns to have this in the bag.
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