On February 3, 2025, the Minnesota Timberwolves are set to host the Sacramento Kings at the Target Center, with tip-off scheduled for 8 PM ET. This matchup is particularly significant as both teams fight for playoff positioning.
The Timberwolves, holding a record of 27-22, are coming off a disappointing loss to the Washington Wizards—a game they should have won, especially considering the Wizards had lost 16 consecutive games leading up to the match. Despite missing key players like Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle, who were sidelined due to injury, the Timberwolves could not capitalize on the opportunity.
Anthony Edwards, the Timberwolves’ star player and leading scorer, is currently dealing with illness and is listed as questionable for the game. He missed the previous game against the Wizards, raising concerns about his health and the overall performance of the team moving forward. If Edwards is unable to play, the Timberwolves will face significant challenges. His scoring ability has been pivotal to Minnesota’s game, averaging 26.6 points per game this season.
Meanwhile, the Sacramento Kings enter this game with plenty of changes after executing one of the biggest trades in franchise history. De'Aaron Fox has been shipped to the San Antonio Spurs, and as the Kings look to integrate new talent such as Zach LaVine, Malik Monk has stepped up as the lead guard. Monk has been solid, averaging 18.0 points and 5.9 assists, making him one of the players to watch for Sacramento.
Despite their record of 24-24, the Kings are desperate for wins as they aim to bounce back after losing four out of their last five games. The recent trade has undoubtedly shifted their dynamics, leaving players adjusting both roles and responsibilities. Currently, it’s uncertain if LaVine will join the team for this matchup. He is expected to join the Kings soon, but for now, Monk will be under heavy pressure to perform.
The absence of Fox means the Kings will need contributions from their new acquisitions right away. DeMar DeRozan and Domantas Sabonis are expected to shoulder more responsibility. DeRozan has been impressive this season with consistent scoring—averaging 21.5 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.6 assists—while Sabonis continues to dominate the glass and contribute to playmaking.
Speaking of Sabonis, he recently reached the milestone of surpassing 10,000 points, 6,500 rebounds, and 3,000 assists—all of this achieved within just 622 career games. This puts him among elite company, as only Nikola Jokic accomplished such feats quicker, highlighting the caliber of the Kings’ center.
On the injury front for Minnesota, both Anthony Edwards and Naz Reid are listed as questionable for the game, which could significantly impact their gameplay and strategy. Missing Reid, who contributes both offensively and defensively, would require the Timberwolves to reshuffle their lineup. Meanwhile, Donte DiVincenzo and Julius Randle are confirmed to be out, meaning the Timberwolves' depth will be tested.
The Kings, on the other hand, have no significant injuries reported, except for Isaiah Crawford and Colby Jones, who are currently assigned to the G League. They will need their top players to step up, especially considering Minnesota’s home-court advantage and their historical performance against Sacramento—winning two out of their last three matchups.
The anticipated starting lineups for tonight’s game are as follows:
Minnesota Timberwolves:
- Mike Conley
- Anthony Edwards (if available)
- Jaden McDaniels
- Naz Reid (if available)
- Rudy Gobert
Sacramento Kings:
- Domantas Sabonis
- DeMar DeRozan
- Keegan Murray
- Keon Ellis
- Malik Monk
The game is not being televised nationally, but fans can catch the action on the FanDuel Sports Network and via NBA League Pass. With Minnesota favored by 4.5 points, fans are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting showdown.
Analytics suggest this could turn out to be a high-scoring affair, with projections estimating the total score could reach up to 221.5 points. Recent performances from both teams indicate potential for offensive fireworks, especially if Edwards takes the court for the Timberwolves.
With playoff implications hanging over this encounter, both teams will come out fighting. Will the Timberwolves snap back after their previous loss, or will the Kings draw on their fresh roster changes to secure the much-needed victory? All eyes will be on Minneapolis tonight as the drama of the NBA season continues to escalate.