Sports
Julius Randle, having missed the previous 13 games for the minnesota Timberwolves due to a groin injury, made his comeback on Sunday night, contributing 20 points in 34 minutes during a 116-98 victory over the Phoenix Suns.
Randle’s return signifies a much-needed boost for minnesota as it gradually works its way back to full health. Donte DiVincenzo also returned from a 19-game hiatus on Thursday against the Los Angeles Lakers, leaving only Rudy Gobert,who has been out for eight consecutive games due to a back injury and was again unavailable against the Suns,as the last significant injured player for Minnesota.
The injuries have posed challenges for Minnesota in what has been an underwhelming follow-up to last year’s run to the Western Conference finals. The timberwolves recorded a 5-8 record while Randle was absent and currently stand at 33-29, holding onto the No. 8 seed in the West after Sunday’s victory.
Even when fully healthy, it has been somewhat of a struggle for Minnesota as trading away Karl-anthony Towns. Last season’s defense, which ranked first in the league, has dropped to sixth place. While their offense has seen betterment with a current ranking of No. 13 this season, this progress is largely attributed to Anthony Edwards‘ performance.His compatibility with Randle—a ball-dominant forward who does not shoot nearly as effectively as Towns—has been somewhat awkward.
Now that Randle is back with just over one month left in the season, he will need to demonstrate that he can be an effective partner alongside Edwards moving forward. The pair performed well together on Sunday against a struggling Phoenix team as Edwards returned from a one-game suspension and scored an impressive 44 points in their win.
The contract of Randle includes a player option for next season; similarly, reigning Sixth Man of YearNaz Reid, who is anticipated to secure considerable compensation during free agency this offseason also holds such an option. The upcoming six weeks could significantly influence how things unfold regarding Minnesota’s frontcourt.
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