Timberwolves Struggle to Reverse Skid Against Injury-Plagued Pacers

Minnesota looks to end 3-game losing streak against lowly Indiana squad missing key players

Apr. 7, 2026 at 2:49am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball game with overlapping planes of color representing the teams, conveying the competitive spirit and challenges faced by both squads.A cubist interpretation of the Timberwolves' struggle to overcome injuries and regain their form against the undermanned but scrappy Pacers.Minneapolis Today

The Minnesota Timberwolves, currently clinging to the 6th seed in the Western Conference, are looking to snap a 3-game losing streak when they visit the struggling Indiana Pacers on Tuesday. The Wolves have been hampered by injuries to star players Anthony Edwards and Jaden McDaniels, while the Pacers have been decimated by injuries all season and are missing several key contributors for the matchup.

Why it matters

The Timberwolves are trying to maintain their playoff positioning in the crowded Western Conference, but their recent slide has them concerned about their team's spirit and connectedness. A win over the lowly Pacers could help get them back on track, while Indiana is simply trying to remain competitive despite their extensive injury issues.

The details

Minnesota coach Chris Finch acknowledged the Timberwolves are 'a million miles' from where they want to be, as they've lost 3 straight games including a 122-108 defeat to the Charlotte Hornets on Sunday. The Wolves have been hurt by the absences of Edwards, who has missed 8 of the last 10 games with a knee injury, and McDaniels, who has been out for 5 straight with a left knee issue. Indiana, meanwhile, is dealing with its own injury crisis, with All-Star forward Pascal Siakam and guard Ben Sheppard the latest additions to their lengthy injured list. The Pacers stuck with the Cavaliers for 3 quarters on Sunday before falling 117-108, with center Micah Potter celebrating his return to the starting lineup by posting a 21-point, 12-rebound double-double.

  • The Timberwolves will visit the Pacers on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.
  • Anthony Edwards has missed 8 of Minnesota's past 10 games with a right knee injury.
  • Jaden McDaniels has missed 5 straight games for the Timberwolves with a left knee injury.

The players

Chris Finch

Head coach of the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Anthony Edwards

Star player for the Minnesota Timberwolves who has missed significant time due to a right knee injury.

Jaden McDaniels

Key player for the Minnesota Timberwolves who has been out for 5 straight games with a left knee injury.

Micah Potter

Center for the Indiana Pacers who celebrated his return to the starting lineup with a 21-point, 12-rebound double-double.

Rick Carlisle

Head coach of the Indiana Pacers.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'For sure, it feels like we're a million miles away from the team that we can be and that we are. We've got to get that back with our connectiveness and our spirit. And we've got to have some guys just play better... We've got to make all the little plays, the gritty plays, just stay in it.'”

— Chris Finch, Head Coach, Minnesota Timberwolves

“'There are no excuse as to who's in or out of the line-up right now. We just feel like we should play a better brand of basketball regardless of who's on the floor.'”

— Mike Conley, Veteran Guard, Minnesota Timberwolves

“'Congratulations to the Potters -- it's a boy. He kept the drama going right up to the jump, with two pairs of sneakers out there ... but it was pretty good.'”

— Rick Carlisle, Head Coach, Indiana Pacers

“'All in all, I'm just real proud of the group. To compete the way we did for three full quarters and a good chunk of the fourth, to have a lead and carry the lead for a long time, with the group that was available was a great effort by them.'”

— Rick Carlisle, Head Coach, Indiana Pacers

What’s next

The Timberwolves will look to get back on track and maintain their playoff positioning in the Western Conference when they visit the Pacers on Tuesday. Indiana will try to continue competing hard despite their extensive injury issues.

The takeaway

This game highlights the contrasting fortunes of the Timberwolves and Pacers this season. While Minnesota is fighting to secure a playoff spot, Indiana has plummeted to the bottom of the league due to a rash of injuries to key players. The Wolves' ability to overcome their own injury woes and regain their team spirit will be crucial as they try to reverse their recent slide.