Karl-Anthony Towns expected to return to Timberwolves before NBA playoffs
As the Minnesota Timberwolves inch closer to securing the top overall spot in the Western Conference playoff picture, star big man Karl-Anthony Towns looks to be nearing his return.
Towns has missed the last month due to a torn meniscus in his left knee. The issue initially had a time frame of about four weeks before he would be re-evaluated. According to The Athletics’ Shams Charania, the All-Star big man has made enough progress to return before the playoffs.
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“Great news for Karl-Anthony Towns, he participated in his first team scrimmage on Sunday,” Charania said. “There is optimism that Karl-Anthony Towns will play before the playoffs start.”
Towns was cleared for full-contact, 5-on-5 basketball activities on Tuesday. Minnesota has moved the 28-year-old along in his recovery in hopes of him being back in the fold before the playoffs.
Prior to the injury, Towns was putting up another strong season. So far he’s averaging 22.1 points and 8.4 rebounds. Meanwhile, Towns is shooting 50.6 percent from the floor and 42.3 percent from beyond the arc.
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In his absence, the Timberwolves hold a 12-5 record, keeping them in a tie for the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference playoff picture. Star guard Anthony Edwards has led the charge with Towns sidelined. He put up a career-best 51 points in Tuesday’s win over the Washington Wizards.
Towns’ return should provide the Timberwolves with a significant lift as he and Edwards form one of the league’s best duos. Minnesota will need steady production if they hope to make a deep playoff run.
