Luka Garza Seizes Opportunity Amidst Minnesota Timberwolves' Frontcourt Injury Challenges

Garza has seen substantial minutes in four out of the last five games due to absences from Rudy Gobert, Naz Reid, and Karl-Anthony Towns. Kyle Anderson was tasked with defending Denver's Nikola Jokic during the Timberwolves' 115-112 loss at Target Center. However, he quickly accumulated three fouls in just three minutes of play. Despite this, the former Iowa Hawkeye managed to contribute significantly, playing over 22 minutes, scoring 11 points, and grabbing six rebounds. Garza had yet to see any playing time this season until injuries sidelined at least two of the Wolves' centers. With Rudy Gobert missing four of the past five games due to hamstring tightness and a bruised rib, Garza's patience on the bench finally paid off with some valuable minutes.

In an instant, it was Garza's moment. After his initial stint, Garza appeared as though he had just endured nine rounds with a heavyweight champion, not merely nine minutes against arguably the NBA's top player.

Nikola Jokić had him scrambling in the first quarter, amassing 13 points and eight rebounds. Jokić effortlessly exploited his matchup against Garza, shooting over him with ease and sinking unstoppable turnaround jumpers to build a commanding lead.

The Nuggets dominated the Timberwolves, asserting their dominance on the boards and showcasing the form of a championship-caliber team. Garza, visibly winded, took a breather at the start of the second quarter, receiving guidance from assistant coach Joe Boylan like a seasoned cornerman.


While no one anticipated Garza to outduel Jokić, a two-time MVP and potential third-time recipient this season, they sought resilience from him—and that's precisely what Garza delivered as the game progressed.

Garza's sweat-soaked effort and unwavering passion on the court against overwhelming odds mirror the essence of the Timberwolves and their season. Despite their shortcomings and unconventional approach, they refuse to back down, proving their mettle against formidable opponents.

Though Jokić and the Nuggets emerged victorious on Tuesday, the narrow 115-112 outcome defied expectations. Well, perhaps not for Wolves coach Chris Finch.


In the second half, Garza's offensive output was limited to a single point. However, it was his tenacity and defensive resolve that left a lasting impression. Together with Anderson, they limited Jokić to 13 points and six rebounds after halftime—an impressive feat for most players, albeit less remarkable considering the undersized front line they faced.


The Wolves are set to play again on Friday, with Gobert's status uncertain as a game-time decision. Meanwhile, Finch expressed optimism regarding Reid's return, suggesting that Garza's stint in the rotation could be temporary. Nonetheless, his contributions have been pivotal, aiding the Wolves to a 2-2 record in games missed by Gobert.

Source : Star Tribune
Source : The Athletic