The Minnesota Timberwolves are facing an uphill battle against the Denver Nuggets, compounded by a series of late injuries. Less than two hours before Game 6, Ayo Dosunmu and Kyler Anderson were ruled out.
Late Injury News Hits Timberwolves Hard
Ayo Dosunmu was added to the injury report with right calf soreness, while Kyler Anderson is sidelined due to illness. Shams Charania reported that Dosunmu was out due to his calf injury, just minutes after Jon Krawczynski indicated he would be a game-time decision.
Krawczynski reacted to the news by saying Dosunmu has been a breakthrough player in the playoffs. He added that calf injuries are nothing to mess with and that the loss was a gutting one for the Wolves, making the mountain even steeper.
Edwards and DiVincenzo Already Sidelined
The Timberwolves are already without Anthony Edwards and Donte DiVincenzo. Edwards is week-to-week with a bone bruise after hyperextending his left knee in Game 4. DiVincenzo ruptured his Achilles in that same game and has undergone surgery, keeping him out for most of next season.
Possible Starting Lineup and Bench Rotation
Without Edwards, DiVincenzo, Dosunmu, and Anderson, the starting lineup is uncertain. One possibility is a starting five consisting of Mike Conley, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Jaden McDaniels, Naz Reid, and Rudy Gobert.
If Naz Reid does not start, Terrence Shannon Jr. or Bones Hyland could take his place. The decision rests with head coach Chris Finch and his desired rotation.
The potential bench rotation includes Hyland, who was questionable with knee soreness but has been cleared to play. However, it remains to be seen if his minutes will be limited.
Unexpected Roles for Other Players
Due to the numerous injuries, players like Ingles, Phillips, and Beringer may be required to play significant minutes. This is an unexpected scenario given the circumstances, making Denver a heavy favourite to win Game 6 and potentially host Game 7 on Saturday.
Game 7, if needed, is expected to begin at 6:30 p.m. CT on Saturday.
Regardless of whether the series goes six or seven games, Game 1 of the conference semifinals against the Spurs will be on Monday night in San Antonio.