Karl-Anthony Towns is in the starting lineup for the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday at Indiana after missing 15 games with sprained left knee.
Coach Ryan Saunders told reporters before the game the two-time All-Star will be on a minutes restriction because of his prolonged absence. Team officials also plan to closely monitor Towns for fatigue.
“He hasn't played for a while, so you have to take all those things into account," Saunders said. “You always want to have a full complement of players and when you have a guy who is as productive as KAT is, you always want that guy out there."
Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns, right, reacts after being called on a technical foul and is led away from the referee by forward Robert Covington during the second half of an NBA basketball game Friday, Dec. 13, 2019, in Minneapolis. Clippers won 124-117. (AP PhotoCraig Lassig)
Minnesota went 5-10 without Towns.
Towns averages 26.5 points and 11.7 rebounds and shoots 51.4% from the field, all team highs. He also averages 4.4 assists, the highest among players on the current roster following Thursday's trade, which sent Jeff Teague to Atlanta.
The Timberwolves will be without guard Allen Crabbe, who they reacquired from Atlanta. Saunders said Crabbe is expected to join the team Saturday in Minneapolis.
Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns and Los Angeles Clippers head coach Doc Rivers, left, react after Towns is fouled as he made a three point shot during the second half of an NBA basketball game Friday, Dec. 13, 2019, in Minneapolis. Clippers won 124-117. (AP PhotoCraig Lassig)
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