The Target Center in Minneapolis is set for a compelling cross-conference NBA showdown on Thursday, January 8, 2026. The visiting Cleveland Cavaliers, holding a 21-17 record and the sixth spot in the Eastern Conference, will take on the Minnesota Timberwolves, who are 24-13 and also sit sixth in the highly competitive Western Conference. This marks the first encounter between the two franchises this season.
Team Form and Injury Concerns Ahead of Tip-Off
The Cavaliers arrive in Minnesota navigating a significant injury crisis that has tested their depth. Max Strus remains out indefinitely after undergoing surgery for a Jones fracture in his left foot. Forward Dean Wade will also miss the contest due to a left knee contusion, and Larry Nance Jr. is sidelined with a calf injury. A silver lining for Cleveland is the probable status of bench contributor Jaylon Tyson, who is battling illness but is expected to play. Tyson has been a reliable spark, shooting an impressive 43.9 percent from beyond the arc.
In contrast, the Minnesota Timberwolves' injury report is comparatively lighter. The primary absence is Terrence Shannon Jr., who is out with a left foot strain. Some G-League assignees like Freeman Zarsky are unavailable, but the Timberwolves' core will be at full strength. The team will lean heavily on its star trio of Anthony Edwards, Julius Randle, and defensive anchor Rudy Gobert.
Key Matchups and Statistical Battle
This game presents a classic stylistic clash. The Cavaliers, one of the league's higher-scoring units averaging 121.4 points per game, will look to spread the offense. They are led by the dynamic Donovan Mitchell, who is putting up 29.8 points and 5.4 assists per game. Cleveland will aim to push the pace whenever possible to offset their missing personnel.
Minnesota, however, has built its success on a more consistent and formidable defense, allowing only 114.6 points per game. They excel in half-court execution and protecting the paint, a strength shared by Cleveland. The marquee individual duel will feature Anthony Edwards, averaging 29.3 points, trying to overpower a Cavaliers defense that will need a collective effort.
The recent form also favors the home team. Minnesota rides a three-game winning streak and has averaged a blistering 131 points over its last four outings. Cleveland has gone 6-4 in its last ten games but faces a tough challenge on the road, where the Timberwolves have been particularly strong.
How and Where to Watch the Game
The game is scheduled for an 8:00 PM ET (7:00 PM local Minneapolis time) tip-off at the Target Center. For local viewers, the broadcast will be available on FanDuel Sports Network North in Minnesota and FanDuel Sports Network Ohio in Cleveland. National and international fans can stream the action via the FanDuel Sports Network App, the ESPN app for out-of-market viewers, or through an NBA League Pass subscription.
Historically, Cleveland dominates the all-time regular-season series with a 42-27 edge and swept both meetings in 2025. However, Minnesota's robust home-court advantage and superior health this season level the playing field. The outcome may hinge on Cleveland's ability to get productive minutes from its bench to counter Minnesota's star-powered, defensively sound lineup.
