Thursday night will feature the second contest of a two-game road trip for the Minnesota Timberwolves. After earning a close win over the New Orleans Pelicans on the second night of a back-to-back on Tuesday, the Wolves will remain in the Gulf of Mexico region to take on the Magic in Orlando.
One of the most promising young squads in the Eastern Conference, the Magic have been really struggling ever since the start of December. They have alternated wins and losses quite a bit since then, holding just a 7-9 record after beginning the year 15-7.
Still, Orlando protects their home court well. They are 13-5 at the Kia Center this season, and this will be far from an easy one for the Timberwolves.
Timberwolves projected starting lineup vs Magic
Chris Finch's unexpected insertion of Donte DiVincenzo into the starting lineup in place of Mike Conley has been paying off so far, with the Timberwolves holding a 2-0 record since the move was ultimately made. Look for the same starters on Thursday in Orlando.
Donte DiVincenzo
Anthony Edwards
Jaden McDaniels
Julius Randle
Rudy Gobert
Timberwolves injury report
Rob Dillingham (right ankle sprain), Jesse Edwards (two-way), Tristen Newton (two-way) and Terrence Shannon Jr. (G League Assignment) are all out against the Magic. Everyone else is available to play.
Magic projected starting lineup vs Timberwolves
After being out since October 30 with a torn oblique, Paolo Banchero was upgraded to questionable on the Magic's injury report on Wednesday. Assuming he waits until Friday to make his return, these are the likely Orlando starters.
Tristan da Silva
Goga Bitadze
Cole Anthony
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
Caleb Houstan
Magic injury report
Paolo Banchero (oblique) is questionable against Minnesota. Moritz Wagner (knee), Gary Harris (hamstring), Jalen Suggs (back) and Franz Wagner (oblique) are all out.
How to watch Timberwolves-Magic
Timberwolves vs Magic will be aired on NBA TV. Wolves fans can also tune in to the action on FanDuel Sports Network where Michael Grady and Jim Petersen will call the game.
For fans without direct access to NBA TV, a stream will also be available on NBA League Pass.
Timberwolves' next five regular season games
Saturday, January 11 vs Memphis Grizzlies (7:00 PM CT on FDSS)
Monday, January 13 at Washington Wizards (6:00 PM CT on FDSS)
Wednesday, January 15 vs Golden State Warriors (7:00 PM CT on FDSS)
Friday, January 17 at New York Knicks (6:30 PM CT on FDSS)
Saturday, January 18 vs Cleveland Cavaliers (8:00 PM CT on FDSS)