John Hefferon MD
2 min read • March 15, 2023
Posted in
Minnesota’s much-anticipated front court pairing is nearing a reunion, as Karl-Anthony Towns creeps closer to returning from the right calf strain that has kept him out since late November.
Although Towns’ recovery has been slower than fans have expected, he is actually right on track given that he experienced a Grade 3 strain – a complete muscle tear, according to the Pro Basketball Docs.
The former No. 1 overall pick should be back in late March and have time to ramp up for the playoffs if Minnesota can hold on to their spot in the play-in tournament.
Towns was spotted in a boot as late as Jan. 30, meaning training staff still did not want him putting weight on his injured right leg two months after the initial injury.
Despite speculation, he did not appear to suffer a setback in his recovery. Grade 3 strains typically take 10-12 weeks to recover.
Towns’ 12th week came in late February, but his slow ramp up is not a surprise given his size and unique play style for a big man.
The Timberwolves have gone 25-23 without the center out of Kentucky and currently hold the 7 spot in the Western Conference, a game up on the three-way tie for 8th place.
Minnesota has played 19 games with Rudy Gobert and Towns both active, going 9-10 in that stretch.
The team has the 9th worst odds to win the NBA Finals at +25000, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.
Sign up here for our FREE weekly newsletter and you'll get the best NFL, CFB, NBA and MLB injury insights from our Pro Sports Doctors plus Free Picks delivered straight to your inbox to give you an edge in betting and fantasy! Right now you'll also get one FREE month of SIC Picks - our best injury-based picks - valued at up to $200. Details sent instantly upon providing email.
Written by John Hefferon MD
