Timberwolves Rest Starters, Gobert Shines in Magic Matchup

Minnesota sits key players as Orlando fights for Play-In Tournament spot

Apr. 8, 2026 at 6:44pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game between the Minnesota Timberwolves and Orlando Magic, with the players and court broken down into sharp, overlapping shapes and planes of color.The Timberwolves' decision to rest their starters creates an opportunity for the Magic to gain ground in the Eastern Conference playoff race.Today in Orlando

The Minnesota Timberwolves, already locked into the No. 6 seed in the Western Conference, will rest most of their starters for Wednesday's matchup against the Orlando Magic. With Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, Mike Conley, and others out, the focus will be on center Rudy Gobert, who is expected to play extended minutes as the Timberwolves coast towards the playoffs.

Why it matters

This game has major implications for the Magic, who are fighting to secure a spot in the Play-In Tournament in the Eastern Conference. Orlando will look to take advantage of Minnesota's depleted lineup, while the Timberwolves aim to keep their key players healthy ahead of the postseason.

The details

The Timberwolves have declared several players out for rest or injury, including Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, Mike Conley, Ayo Dosunmu, and Julius Randle. Rudy Gobert is listed as questionable but is expected to play significant minutes, as the team wants to avoid any potential suspensions for the playoffs. With so many key Timberwolves players sidelined, the focus will be on Gobert to carry the load against the Magic.

  • The Timberwolves have declared several players out for Wednesday's game against the Magic.
  • Rudy Gobert is listed as questionable but is expected to play extended minutes to avoid any potential suspensions for the playoffs.

The players

Rudy Gobert

The veteran center for the Minnesota Timberwolves, who is expected to play a significant role with many of his teammates resting.

Anthony Edwards

The Timberwolves' star guard, who is out for rest and recovery from a knee injury.

Jaden McDaniels

The Timberwolves' starting forward, who is also out for rest and recovery from a knee injury.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must rest our key players to ensure they are healthy and ready for the playoffs. Rudy Gobert will be the focal point tonight as we give others a chance to recover.”

— Chris Finch, Head Coach, Minnesota Timberwolves

“This is a huge opportunity for us to gain ground in the Play-In race. We'll be ready to take advantage of the Timberwolves' depleted lineup.”

— Jamahl Mosley, Head Coach, Orlando Magic

What’s next

The Timberwolves will continue to rest their starters in the final two games of the regular season, while the Magic will look to capitalize on Minnesota's lineup changes and secure a spot in the Play-In Tournament.

The takeaway

This game highlights the delicate balance teams must strike between resting players for the playoffs and remaining competitive down the stretch. The Timberwolves are prioritizing health over seeding, while the Magic see an opportunity to improve their postseason positioning.