Timberwolves say Karl-Anthony Towns will return 'in coming weeks' as playoffs fast approach

The Timberwolves sent out a cryptic news release Wednesday saying All-Star center Karl-Anthony Towns, out since Nov. 28 because of a right calf strain, is expected to return "in the coming weeks" and has been participating in basketball activities.

Towns, averaging 20.8 points, 8.2 rebounds and 5.3 assists before his injury, "is continuing to progress in his rehabilitation program," the release said.

Asked about the news release in his pregame meeting with the media, Wolves coach Chris Finch said, "I think we've taken steps towards his return, significant ones. I don't know the timeline.''

After the morning shootaround before the Wolves' game against Boston on Wednesday, Towns scrimmaged with reserve players and coaches.

"I try not to watch,'' Finch joked when asked about the scrimmage. "It's like looking into the sun. It's bad for your eyes.''

The Wolves' regular season ends April 9, which is in 3½ weeks.

Spokespersons for Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez confirmed the two will meet a March 28 deadline to pay for their next installment in the takeover of the franchise. The two will purchase an additional 20% of the team, which increases their ownership stake to 40% from Glen Taylor.

Lore and Rodriguez agreed to pay $1.5 billion to take over the team. They paid 20% in 2021 and must make another payment in 2024.

The new owners could also be adding limited partners as they prepare to take over the franchise, sources previously told the Star Tribune.

Lore, a New York-based entrepreneur, and Rodriguez, a former major league baseball star who earned more than $440 million during his career, have been involved in major decisions with the team since agreeing to the purchase.

Taylor, 81, also owns the Star Tribune. He is founder and owner of Taylor Corporation.