The Minnesota Timberwolves have confirmed that rookie guard Rob Dillingham will not be available for Game 2 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Golden State Warriors. The 20-year-old has been sidelined with a right ankle sprain, the only name listed on Minnesota’s official injury report ahead of the matchup.
Dillingham originally sustained the injury in late December, which kept him out of action for three games. Following an MRI conducted at the Mayo Clinic by Dr. Kelechi Okoroha, the team diagnosed him with a Grade 2 right lateral ankle sprain.
“An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) taken at Mayo Clinic by Dr. Kelechi Okoroha on Dillingham confirmed a Grade 2 right lateral ankle sprain. His return to play timeline is 1-2 weeks and he will be re-evaluated in one week. Further updates of his progress will be provided when available,” the Timberwolves said in a statement.
Dillingham made his return on January 17 against the New York Knicks, recording nine points and three assists. He followed that up with his best stretch of the season, averaging 9.8 points and 3.0 assists over the final seven games in January.
However, as the Timberwolves ramped up for the postseason, Dillingham’s minutes diminished. He ended the regular season averaging 4.5 points, 1 rebound, and 2 assists per game. He did not appear during Minnesota’s first-round series against the Los Angeles Lakers and is not expected to return during the remainder of the playoffs, even if he makes a full recovery.
Despite his absence, the Timberwolves are well-equipped at the guard position. Veterans Mike Conley and Donte DiVincenzo are expected to take on primary ball-handling duties in Game 2.
How to Watch Game 2: Warriors vs. Timberwolves
Game 2 between the Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves will be broadcast live on TNT. Fans can also stream the game through NBA League Pass, HBO Max, and the YouTube TV app/website, although regional restrictions may apply.
Tip-off is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. EST (5:30 p.m. PT) on Thursday, May 8, at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota.