The reshuffled Los Angeles Clippers (27-30) host the surging Minnesota Timberwolves (36-23) on Thursday night for a primetime Western Conference clash at the Intuit Dome. The Clippers are on a two-game slump after losses to the Los Angeles Lakers and Orlando Magic and have several names on the injury list.
According to the official report, Kawhi Leonard is listed as questionable due to left ankle soreness. The same is true for John Collins, who is dealing with a neck issue, while Darius Garland and Bradley Beal are both out.
Kawhi Leonard's injury status vs. Timberwolves
Despite scoring a big 37 points playing through an injury last time out against Orlando, Kawhi Leonard is a game-time decision. However, the Clippers are sitting precariously in the 10th and final play-in spot in the West, so the stakes are incredibly high.
Edwards has been a complete disappointment since winning All-Star Game MVP, averaging 34 points in his last three contests, including a 34-point masterclass in a 124-121 win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday. The Clippers desperately need their own talisman to perform well.
Led by Edwards (29.6 ppg), the Timberwolves boast the third-ranked scoring attack in the NBA with 119.6 points per game. On February 8, a healthy Leonard methodically destroyed the Timberwolves for 41 points in a 115–96 blowout.
Regardless, Minnesota has a clean bill of health for this game, with their only absence being due to a G League assignment. Therefore, a lot depends on whether the poet is suitable or not. The Timberwolves will look to get revenge any way they can, but Leonard's presence could play a major role in deciding the contest.
shear injury report
- Kawhi Leonard: Doubtful (pain in left ankle)
- John Collins: Suspicious (head injury, neck pain)
- bradley beal: Outside (left hip; fracture)
- Darius Garland: Outside (left big toe; injury management)
timberwolves injury report
- Jules Bernard: Out (G League - Two-Way)
- Enrique Freeman: Out (G League - Two-Way)
- Rocco Zikarski: Out (G League - Two-Way)
