Wolves Look to Rebound Against Hornets at Target Center
January 22, 2024
The Minnesota Timberwolves, leading the Western Conference with a formidable 30-12 record, will face the Charlotte Hornets, languishing at the bottom of the Eastern Conference with a 9-31 record, at Target Center on Monday night.
Wolves Aim to Bounce Back from Recent Loss
The Timberwolves are coming off a disappointing 102-97 home loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday, snapping their three-game winning streak. Despite the setback, Minnesota remains atop the Western Conference standings, boasting a stellar 17-3 home record this season. Their defensive prowess continues to impress, as they lead the league with a remarkable 108.5 defensive rating.
Hornets Seeking an Upset in Minneapolis
The Charlotte Hornets, on the other hand, have endured a challenging season, currently sitting at the 13th spot in the Eastern Conference. Their road struggles have been particularly evident, with a meager 4-17 record away from home. The Hornets will look to pull off an upset in Minneapolis, fueled by their recent improvement, having won two of their last three games.
Key Matchups to Watch
Anthony Edwards vs. Terry Rozier
The dynamic Anthony Edwards, averaging 26.3 points per game, will square off against the Hornets’ leading scorer, Terry Rozier, who averages 20.1 points per game. This matchup promises a thrilling battle between two explosive guards.
Karl-Anthony Towns vs. Mason Plumlee
The towering Karl-Anthony Towns, averaging a double-double of 22.6 points and 11.2 rebounds per game, will face Mason Plumlee, the Hornets’ starting center who averages 11.5 points and 9.1 rebounds per game. Towns’ dominance in the paint will be crucial for the Timberwolves’ success.
D’Angelo Russell vs. LaMelo Ball
D’Angelo Russell, averaging 18.4 points and 6.4 assists per game, will go head-to-head with LaMelo Ball, the Hornets’ young star averaging 19.3 points and 6.7 assists per game. This matchup between two talented playmakers will be a key factor in determining the game’s outcome.
Injury Updates
Wolves:
- Mike Conley (Rest)
- Leonard Miller (G League Assignment)
- Josh Minott (G League Assignment)
- Jaylen Clark (Right Achilles Tendon Rupture Rehab)
Hornets:
- Cody Martin (Right Knee Contusion) – Questionable
- Nick Richards (Right Ankle Sprain) – Doubtful
- Gordon Hayward (Left Calf Strain) – Out
- Mark Williams (Low Back Injury Recovery) – Out
Broadcast Information
Date: Monday, January 22, 2024
Time: 7 PM CT
TV Channel: Bally Sports North
Radio: iHeartRadio | Timberwolves App
Venue: Target Center, Minneapolis, MN
Uniforms:
Wolves: Statement Edition
Hornets: City Edition
Hornets Overview
The Hornets, despite their struggles this season, possess some talented players who can challenge the Timberwolves. Terry Rozier leads the team in scoring, while LaMelo Ball is a dynamic playmaker who can create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. Mason Plumlee provides a solid presence in the paint, averaging a double-double.
Previous Meeting
The Timberwolves and Hornets have faced each other once this season, with Minnesota emerging victorious in Charlotte with a 123-117 win on December 2, 2023. Anthony Edwards led the way for the Wolves with 32 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns added 26 points and 12 rebounds.
Conclusion
The Minnesota Timberwolves will look to return to winning ways when they host the Charlotte Hornets at Target Center on Monday night. Despite the Hornets’ struggles this season, they have shown signs of improvement and possess talented players who can challenge the Wolves. With both teams looking to make a statement, this matchup promises to be an exciting one.