7 p.m. vs. Portland • FSN, 830-AM
Northwest lead is at stake in homestand finale
Preview: This is the final game in a five-game homestand for the Wolves, who have gone 2-2 in the first four. It is also a battle for first place in the Northwest Division; through Sunday the Wolves had a half-game lead over both Portland and Denver in the division. The Wolves will try to rebound from a loss to Phoenix on Saturday in which they had a 15-point second-quarter lead. The Blazers are on a three-game winning streak — one that came after a five-game losing streak.
Players to watch: Wolves C Karl-Anthony Towns has scored 28 or more points in three of his past four games, averaging 26.3 points in those games. F Taj Gibson is coming off an 18-point, 10-rebound game vs. Phoenix. Portland is led by the dynamic backcourt of C.J. McCollum and Damian Lillard, who combined for 43 points, 14 assists and nine rebounds in Saturday's victory over Charlotte. McCollum averaged 27.5 points, 56.3 percent shooting and 50 percent shooting on three-pointers in four games vs. the Wolves last season.
Numbers: Saturday's 15-point lead lost by the Wolves was the biggest of the season and the third time the Wolves have led by 10 or more in a game and lost. It was also the fifth time the Wolves have lost when leading after three quarters
Injuries: Wolves F Nemanja Bjelica (left midfoot sprain) is questionable. G Jimmy Butler (back spasms) is questionable. The Blazers report no injuries.
Kent Youngblood
