The Minnesota Timberwolves’ momentum just took a hit.
One day after appearing to gain a potential health advantage, Minnesota will now face a fully loaded San Antonio Spurs backcourt in Game 5, with both De’Aaron Fox and rookie guard Dylan Harper available despite earlier injury concerns.
Harper had been listed as questionable with left knee soreness, while Fox was dealing with left ankle soreness. Both participated in pregame activities and are expected to play, erasing what had briefly looked like a key edge for Minnesota.
With the Western Conference semifinal series tied 2-2, the shift significantly alters the outlook heading into a pivotal Game 5.
Timberwolves Lose Injury Advantage Ahead of Game 5
Just hours earlier, Minnesota appeared to be in position to capitalize on San Antonio’s uncertainty.
Harper’s addition to the injury report and Fox’s questionable status created the possibility that the Spurs could be without two key perimeter players in their most important game of the season.
That scenario is no longer in play.
Instead, Minnesota must now prepare for both guards at or near full strength, eliminating a potential path to controlling the pace and defensive matchups.
De’Aaron Fox Availability Changes Game Plan
Fox’s presence is the most significant development.
The veteran guard has averaged 16.8 points and 4.0 assists in the series while serving as San Antonio’s primary perimeter creator. His ability to attack off the dribble and collapse defenses forces opponents into difficult rotations.
For Minnesota, that means re-emphasizing point-of-attack defense and limiting transition opportunities — areas that Fox can exploit if given space.
Without the benefit of a limited or absent Fox, the Timberwolves lose a key opportunity to dictate tempo.
Dylan Harper Adds Two-Way Pressure
GettySpurs rookie Dylan Harper defends Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards during the Western Conference semifinal series between Minnesota and San Antonio.
Harper’s availability compounds the challenge.
The rookie guard nearly swung Game 4 in San Antonio’s favor, finishing with 24 points, seven rebounds and three steals in 27 minutes. He repeatedly attacked Minnesota’s defense after Victor Wembanyama’s ejection and fueled a late push that cut into the Timberwolves’ lead.
Beyond scoring, Harper has shown the ability to defend multiple positions, including stretches against Anthony Edwards. His presence gives San Antonio added flexibility on both ends of the floor.
With Harper active, Minnesota loses a potential mismatch advantage and must account for another playmaker.
Anthony Edwards, Timberwolves Face Tougher Path
Minnesota had regained momentum behind a dominant Game 4 performance from Edwards, who scored 36 points, including 16 in the fourth quarter, to even the series.
The Timberwolves also controlled the paint late, with Rudy Gobert and Naz Reid taking advantage after Wembanyama’s early exit.
But Game 5 now presents a different challenge.
Instead of facing a potentially shorthanded opponent, Minnesota must contend with a Spurs team that has its primary backcourt intact — raising the level of difficulty in a game that could decide the series.
Game 5 Stakes Shift With Spurs at Full Strength
Game 5 has historically served as a turning point in playoff series, often determining momentum moving forward.
With Fox and Harper both available, San Antonio regains balance, shot creation and defensive versatility — key elements that were briefly in question.
For Minnesota, what looked like an opening has turned into a test.
The Timberwolves will need to respond against a Spurs team that suddenly appears far more complete than expected.
Timberwolves Get Bad News Just Before Crucial Game 5