THE Minnesota Timberwolves and LA Clippers close out their season series at Crypto.com Arena on Tuesday. THE Timber wolves lead 2-1, but the Clippers earned bragging rights in the final game with an 89-88 victory on March 3. It was a preview of what a playoff series between Western Conference contenders could look like.
Kawhi Leonard’s 32 points topped Anthony Edwards’ 27 points as the Clippers saved the season series. LA will hold the advantage in this matchup with Karl-Anthony Towns ruled out. The Clippers have four wins in their last six games, while the Timberwolves have posted the opposite record with just two wins in that span.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs. LA Clippers Injury Reports
•
Minnesota Timberwolves injury report for March 12
The Timberwolves injury report includes six players. Karl-Anthony Towns and Jaylen Clark are out with knee and Achilles injuries. Kyle Anderson (shoulder), Rudy Gobert (hamstring), Anthony Edwards (ankle) and Monte Morris (hamstring) are questionable.
LA Clippers injury report for March 12
THE Clippers Kawhi Leonard and Paul George are questionable with groin and knee injuries, while Russell Westbrook is the only one out with a broken hand.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs. LA Clippers Starting Lineups and Depth Charts
Minnesota Timberwolves starting lineup and depth chart for March 12
The Timberwolves’ starting lineup could include Mike Conley Jr., Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, Kyle Anderson and Rudy Gobert.
LA Clippers starting lineup and depth chart for March 12
The Clippers will likely deploy their best starting five with James Harden, Paul George, Terance Mann, Kawhi Leonard and Ivica Zubac.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs. LA Clippers Key Matchups
The Timberwolves and Clippers rely on opposing schemes. Minnesota relies on size and physicality, while Los Angeles is all about flair and pace. The teams have player counterparts who produce excellent matchups. There would be several on Tuesday.
Anthony Edwards did not hesitate to keep Kawhi Leonard and vice versa. Both All-Stars could do it again, and the winner of the match could have a direct impact on the outcome of the match for their team.
The other is between Jaden McDaniels and Paul George. The former is an excellent defender, perfect for defending a player like George, who is 6-foot-9 with a smooth handle. McDaniels can be very disruptive for George, who has struggled with his effectiveness recently. Limiting his impact could be the way forward for Minnesota.
The battle of the bigs between Ivica Zubac and Rudy Gobert is the other key clash. Both centers emerged as unexpected offensive weapons, with their lob threat coming from pick-and-rolls.
