Timberwolves Could be Down 2 Key Rotation Players vs. Raptors

The Minnesota Timberwolves could be without Mike Conley and Donte DiVincenzo who are questionable to play Thursday vs. the Toronto Raptors

Oct 25, 2023; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Mike Conley (10) drives to the net against Toronto Raptors guard Gradey Dick (1) during the first half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images / John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

The Minnesota Timberwolves may be shorthanded Thursday night in Toronto

Both Mike Conley and Donte DiVincenzo have been listed as questionable to play against the Toronto Raptors. Conley is tending to a left big toe sprain while DiVincenzo has back spasms after both players played Sunday night against the Phoenix Suns.

If Conley can't play, Canadian Nickeil Alexander-Walker will likely slide into the starting lineup for Minnesota. Rookie Rob Dillingham could see a bigger load off the bench for the Timberwolves as well.

Toronto also has its fair share of injuries but may get Scottie Barnes and rookie first-round pick Ja'Kobe Walter back on Thursday. Both Barnes and Walter are listed as questionable and should go through pre-game workouts before Toronto determines their game status.

When Barnes does return, he'll be on a minutes restriction for the first couple of games as he works his way back from an orbital bone fracture. He'll wear goggles to protect his ailing right eye for the next little while.

The Raptors will continue to be without Bruce Brown, Kelly Olynyk, Immanuel Quickley, Bruno Fernando, and DJ Carton. The injuries will once again force Toronto to go with a small-ball second lineup when Jakob Poeltl is out which should feature Barnes and rookie forward Jonathan Mogbo manning the frontcourt.

If Barnes and Walter don't return Thursday, both should be available when the Raptors hit the road Sunday for the start of a four-game road trip beginning in Cleveland. Brown and Olynyk likely won't be out for too much longer after that.