Trying to end a three-game losing streak, the Minnesota Timberwolves will return to the court to face the Sacramento Kings on Friday night. Playing in their third consecutive contest on the road, Minnesota will attempt to bounce back after frustrating losses have begun to pile up.
In the grand scheme of things, it seems the players know what their big problems are as of right now. Committing turnovers and letting opponents score in transition have been significant areas of concern, but perhaps the biggest issue plaguing this team has surprisingly been a general lack of effort and attention to detail.
It is something Anthony Edwards discussed in the locker room after Wednesday's loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. This team has to re-discover the edge they had last season that made them such a considerable force throughout the regular season. If they can do that, they will have the chance to dominate once again.
Thankfully, Edwards also expressed that he does not think the Wolves will lack that chip on their shoulder against a playoff-caliber squad like the Kings. Another considerable factor headed into Friday's game will be the availability of Sacramento's newly-acquired star, DeMar DeRozan.
Is DeMar DeRozan playing tonight vs the Timberwolves?
As of this writing, DeRozan has been listed as doubtful on the official injury report for Friday. DeMar aggravated his back in Sacramento's previous game against the Phoenix Suns, and the official reason listed for his status is lower back tightness.
While DeRozan is a strong isolation scorer even at this age, his lack of a strong three-point shot changes the way the Kings play on offense. Expect to see more outside shots for Sacramento on Friday. The Timberwolves' contest against the Kings will be especially important considering it is another NBA Cup game, and DeMar's potential absence could change the dynamic of how Minnesota will play.
Full Timberwolves injury report vs Kings:
Jaylen Clark (G League - Two-Way), Jesse Edwards (G League - Two-Way), Leonard Miller (G League - On Assignment) and Daishen Nix (G League - Two-Way) will all be out for the Timberwolves on Friday.
Full Kings injury report vs Timberwolves:
In addition to DeMar DeRozan who is doubtful, Devin Carter (left shoulder surgery) and Malik Monk (right ankle sprain) are both out on Friday.