NBA 2026: Timberwolves vs Spurs Key Matchup Preview, Lineups & Prediction
Timberwolves vs Spurs NBA Preview: Lineups, Injuries, Prediction

The NBA 2025-2026 season serves up a thrilling encounter this Sunday as the Minnesota Timberwolves prepare to host the San Antonio Spurs at the Target Center in Minneapolis. Scheduled for a 7:00 p.m. ET tip-off on January 11, 2026, this game promises high-octane action between two competitive squads. Fans across India can catch all the live action exclusively on FDSN and FDSSW, with streaming options available on Fubo and Prime Video.

Team Form and Key Players to Watch

The Minnesota Timberwolves enter this contest with a solid record of 25 wins from 39 games, showcasing consistency. Their offensive charge will be led by the dynamic duo of Donte DiVincenzo and Julius Randle. Randle has been a statistical powerhouse this season, averaging 22.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 7.1 assists per game. Naz Reid has also been a crucial contributor, adding 14.4 points and 6.2 assists per contest.

On the other side, the San Antonio Spurs hold a marginally better win percentage, having secured 27 victories in 38 outings. The spotlight will firmly be on their phenomenal big man, Victor Wembanyama, who is putting up monstrous numbers: 24.1 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. He is ably supported by guard De'Aaron Fox, who averages 21.0 points and 5.9 assists per game, and rookie Stephon Castle.

Expected Lineups and Injury Concerns

Both teams have announced their probable starting fives, though injury reports could cause last-minute adjustments.

Minnesota Timberwolves Expected Starters:

  • Donte DiVincenzo (Point Guard)
  • Jaden McDaniels (Small Forward)
  • Julius Randle (Power Forward)
  • Rudy Gobert (Center)
  • Naz Reid (Power Forward/Center)

San Antonio Spurs Expected Starters:

  • De'Aaron Fox (Point Guard)
  • Stephon Castle (Shooting Guard)
  • Harrison Barnes (Power Forward)
  • Victor Wembanyama (Center)
  • Dylan Harper (Point Guard/Shooting Guard)

The Timberwolves' injury list shows Terrence Shannon Jr. ruled out (foot), while star Anthony Edwards is marked as questionable due to a foot issue. The Spurs will be without Devin Vassell, who is out for rehabilitation.

Game Prediction and Key Stats

This matchup sets up as a battle of efficient offenses. An interesting trend shows the Timberwolves have scored over 233.5 points in 19 of their 39 games this year. The Spurs have matched this high-scoring benchmark, surpassing 233.5 points in 18 games. The interior battle between Rudy Gobert and Victor Wembanyama will be pivotal, but the availability of Anthony Edwards could swing the momentum. Given the Spurs' slightly better record and the consistent dominance of Wembanyama, they might have a narrow edge, especially if Edwards is limited or absent. However, the Timberwolves' home-court advantage and the scoring prowess of Randle make this an incredibly close call.

This game is a must-watch for NBA fans in India, featuring some of the league's most exciting talents and significant playoff implications for the Western Conference standings.