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Summary:

The Minnesota Timberwolves are preparing to face the Memphis Grizzlies at home on December 17th, 2025, before a crucial game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. While the Grizzlies aren’t the powerhouse they once were, they still pose a threat, especially if the Timberwolves aren’t focused. Minnesota is coming off two wins but may still be without key players like Anthony Edwards, Mike Conley, and Rudy Gobert due to injuries and personal reasons. The key to victory lies in playing connected basketball, moving the ball, and exploiting Memphis’s weaker perimeter defense. Solid bench play and a strong start are crucial to avoid a close, potentially losing affair. Minnesota needs to handle the Grizzlies professionally before shifting their focus to the tougher challenge against the Thunder.

News Article:

Timberwolves Face Grizzlies Test Before Thunder Showdown: Health Key to Minnesota’s Success

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – The Minnesota Timberwolves (17-8) will host the Memphis Grizzlies (8-17) tonight at the Target Center at 7:00 PM CST, in a game that serves as a critical tune-up before a highly anticipated matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday. While the Grizzlies aren’t the same team that eliminated Minnesota from the playoffs in 2022, they still represent a dangerous opponent capable of exploiting lapses in focus.

The Timberwolves enter the game after securing wins against the Golden State Warriors and the Sacramento Kings. However, those wins came despite the absence of key players due to injuries and personal reasons. Anthony Edwards (ankle), Mike Conley (hamstring), and Rudy Gobert (personal) are all listed as game-time decisions. Their availability is crucial, not only for securing a victory against Memphis but also for allowing the team to build chemistry and cohesion with their full starting lineup before facing the Thunder.

“We need to come out with intensity from the jump,” said Coach Chris Finch in the pre-game press conference. “Memphis is a physical team, and if we let them dictate the tempo, we’ll be in a dogfight.”

Key to Minnesota’s success will be their ability to move the ball effectively and exploit Memphis’s perimeter defense. Players like Naz Reid, Donte DiVincenzo, and Jaden McDaniels need to be ready to capitalize on open looks created by penetration from Anthony Edwards (if he plays) or Julius Randle. Defensively, the Timberwolves must control the paint, limit second-chance points, and prevent Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. from establishing a rhythm.

Solid contributions from bench players like Jaylen Clark, Terrence Shannon Jr., Rob Dillingham, and Bones Hyland will also be vital, especially if the Timberwolves are without their key starters.

A victory tonight is crucial for Minnesota to maintain their position in the Western Conference standings and build momentum heading into the showdown with the Thunder. Fans can catch the action on NBA TV and FanDuel Sports Network – North, or listen live on KFAN FM, the Wolves App, and iHeart Radio.

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