The Minnesota Timberwolves are poised to clinch a spot in the NBA Finals as they face off against the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 5 at Crypto.com Arena. The Wolves hold a 3-1 series lead and will look to close out the Lakers on their home court, with a potential Game 6 back in Minnesota.
Referee assignments have been finalized, with John Goble leading the crew alongside James Williams and Ray Acosta. Tre Maddox will serve as the alternate. Notably, the Wolves were 2-3 against Goble during the regular season, with opponents averaging 118.3 points per game.
Injury reports indicate that Lakers forward Maxi Kleber is questionable to play after missing four games due to a foot injury. His return could provide a boost, especially for J.J. Redick, who has seen limited production outside his top players in the series. Meanwhile, Timberwolves rookie Rob Dillingham will miss the game with an ankle injury.
The Lakers-Lakers series on TNT is set to begin at 9:00 p.m. CT, following the Warriors-Rockets doubleheader. With their season on the line and home-court advantage, the Lakers are favored to win Game 5.
Source: https://www.si.com/nba/timberwolves/minnesota-timberwolves-news