The anticipated face-off between the New York Knicks and Minnesota Timberwolves at Madison Square Garden on Friday carries added drama. This marks the first time Minnesota visits New York since the Knicks acquired center Karl-Anthony Towns from the Timberwolves. In a significant trade, the Knicks sent Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo to Minnesota. However, both teams face personnel challenges as they prepare for the game.
DiVincenzo, who recently earned a spot in the starting lineup, will miss his return to Madison Square Garden. The Timberwolves listed him as out due to a sprained left big toe. This comes after DiVincenzo delivered an impressive performance, scoring a season-high 28 points in a narrow 116-115 loss to Golden State on Wednesday. His absence will be a significant blow for Minnesota, which is already strategizing without him.
Meanwhile, Karl-Anthony Towns remains questionable for Friday's game due to a sprained right thumb. Towns sustained the injury during the Knicks' loss to Detroit on Monday and subsequently missed their victory against Philadelphia on Wednesday. During the Philadelphia game, Towns was seen supporting his team from the bench, sporting an Eagles shirt in the first half, further emphasizing his connection to the area.
The Knicks aim to continue their winning momentum after their triumph in Philadelphia on Wednesday. They previously secured a victory over Minnesota last month, adding a psychological edge as they prepare to face their former teammates. The absence of DiVincenzo and the potential absence of Towns loom large over this match-up, influencing both teams' strategies.
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