The Minnesota Timberwolves picked up a dominant 138-113 road win over the Utah Jazz on Thursday night, but the celebration was dampened by unfortunate Julius Randle news.
The Timberwolves forward exited the game in the second quarter with a right groin injury, dealing a potential blow to his team’s season.
Randle, who has been a key piece for the Timberwolves, landed awkwardly after a driving layup, immediately started limping and appeared to clutch his groin muscle before skipping back to the locker room.
The Timberwolves later announced on X, "Julius Randle (Right Groin Soreness) is OUT for the remainder of tonight's game."
Julius Randle (Right Groin Soreness) is OUT for the remainder of tonight's game.
— Timberwolves PR (@Twolves_PR) January 31, 2025
Minnesota put on an offensive clinic, overwhelming Utah from the opening tip. Anthony Edwards led the charge with a dynamic scoring performance, putting up 36 points.
Meanwhile, Luka Garza and Rudy Gobert each scored 16 points in the win. The Timberwolves’ defense suffocated Utah’s frontline, limiting Walker Kessler and John Collins to a combined 10-of-25 shooting from the field.
However, the focus now shifts to Randle and the severity of his injury. The three-time All-Star forward has been one of Minnesota's most reliable scorers this season. Groin injuries can be tricky, often requiring weeks of recovery, and the Timberwolves will be hoping for a quick return.
Losing him for an extended period could put the Timberwolves in a difficult position in the crowded Western Conference playoff race. As things stand, Minnesota sits in the seventh spot , a full game behind the Los Angeles Clippers for an outright playoff berth.
For the Timberwolves, the victory was a statement win, proving their ability to dominate on both ends of the floor. However, the development about Julius Randle's health looms large, potentially reshaping their postseason aspirations depending on how long he remains sidelined.
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