Wolves gameday
6:30 p.m. at New York • Madison Square Garden • FSN, 830-AM
Final 10 games start in the Big Apple
Preview: The Wolves just completed a 10-game stretch — one that included seven games against teams currently in playoff position — with a 5-5 record. Now they embark on their final 10 games, a stretch that includes just two teams currently in the playoff picture. The Knicks are playing out a season of transition with star forward Kristaps Porzingis on the sidelines following knee surgery. The Knicks have lost 18 of their past 21.
Players to watch: Wolves C Karl-Anthony Towns averaged 28.2 points over the past five games. Backup G Jamal Crawford has scored 20 in each of his last two games, making five of 11 three-pointers. G/F Andrew Wiggins had 27 points and three blocks vs. the Clippers on Tuesday. Knicks F Michael Beasley has averaged 18.0 points and shot 66.1 percent his past five games. C Enes Kanter has averaged 13.9 points and 12.1 rebounds in March.
Numbers: A victory would give the Wolves their first winning season since 2003-04 and their first ever without Kevin Garnett in uniform and Flip Saunders as coach. The Wolves are 0-6 against teams currently out of a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference and 3-10 overall on the road vs. the East.
Injuries: Wolves G Jimmy Butler (knee surgery) is out. G Derrick Rose (ankle) is questionable. Knicks G Ron Baker (shoulder), F/C Luke Kornet (G League), C Joakim Noah (personal), F Porzingis (knee surgery) and F Lance Thomas (personal) are out.
