Towns returns to Timberwolves lineup after 15 games out

Posted January 17, 2020 6:00 am

The Associated Press

Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns takes a seat on the bench in the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Denver Nuggets, Friday, Dec. 20, 2019, in Denver. Towns, who usually starts for the Timberwolves, did not play because of an ankle injury. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski) The Associated Press

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - Karl-Anthony Towns is in the starting lineup for the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday at Indiana after missing 15 games with sprained left knee.

Coach Ryan Saunders told reporters before the game the two-time All-Star will be on a minutes restriction because of his prolonged absence. Team officials also plan to closely monitor Towns for fatigue.

'œHe hasn't played for a while, so you have to take all those things into account," Saunders said. 'œYou always want to have a full complement of players and when you have a guy who is as productive as KAT is, you always want that guy out there."

Minnesota went 5-10 without Towns.

Towns averages 26.5 points and 11.7 rebounds and shoots 51.4% from the field, all team highs. He also averages 4.4 assists, the highest among players on the current roster following Thursday's trade, which sent Jeff Teague to Atlanta.

The Timberwolves will be without guard Allen Crabbe, who they reacquired from Atlanta. Saunders said Crabbe is expected to join the team Saturday in Minneapolis.

___

More AP NBA: https://apnews.com/NBA and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports

Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns, right, reacts after being called on a technical foul and is led away from the referee by forward Robert CovingtonÂ during the second half of an NBA basketball game Friday, Dec. 13, 2019, in Minneapolis. Clippers won 124-117. (AP Photo/Craig Lassig) The Associated Press

Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns and Los Angeles Clippers head coachÂ Doc Rivers, left, react after Towns is fouled as he made a three point shot during the second half of an NBA basketball game Friday, Dec. 13, 2019, in Minneapolis. Clippers won 124-117. (AP Photo/Craig Lassig) The Associated Press

Article Comments

Article Categories
Basketball Content Providers NBA Pro Sports Sports Sports Leagues Sports Types

Article Comments

Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.