Wednesday’s game between Minnesota and Dallas raised massive concerns for the Timberwolves. Playing at Target Center, in front of thousands of their supporters, Anthony Edwards and Co. failed to protect homecourt against the Mavs and lost by three points in a thrilling finish. A major reason for the Wolves’ failure at home was the underwhelming performance of veteran guard Mike Conley Jr. Dealing with a lingering injury since Game 5 of the last series, Conley hasn’t been able to perform at his best. More importantly, as the Wolves prepare to host the Mavs again tomorrow, Conley finds himself back on the injury report, raising even more concerns.

Still not completely recovered from the right soleus strain, Mike Conley Jr. has been deemed questionable for Game 2. Conley had the same status before the previous game but suited up for the crucial matchup. However, the effects of his injury were clearly visible in his performance, as he could score only six points on an awful 1-6 shooting from the three-point line. So, even if he plays tomorrow, the Achilles injury might hinder his game, yet again.

Before Wednesday’s game, Conley had a decent playoff run shot over 41% from beyond the arc. In a team full of lengthy players who love to play inside the paint, Conley provided great balance by handling shooting from outside. Moreover, he has been the team’s floor general averaging over six assists and driving the Wolves’ offense.

But his Game 1 performance and now the questionable status for tomorrow might cause trouble for his team going forward. Although Conley is still averaging nearly eleven points in the playoffs, his pace and defensive presence might take a hit because of the soleus strain.

Mike Conley is looking to avoid any setbacks

Before Game 1, Conley revealed that his injury was getting better. Coming off a grueling Game 7 against Denver, the 36-year-old was feeling the effects of his injury but claimed that with the right treatment and rest like he has been getting so far, he felt good going into the game. However, Conley had a two-day rest between the last and the first game of this series, which will not be the case for tomorrow. Only getting a one-day break this time, the injury is likely to sting without proper rest. And the one thing Conley must do at any cost is avoid any further damage.

“It honestly depends on if you can get through the game without having any small setback… You have some movements that really kind of jar it or cause the pain to go up really quickly, and it stays there for a little while. In some games, I get through a whole game and don’t have any setbacks,” Conley added. But in a high-intensity playoff game, where things get more physical than usual, Conley is always at risk of aggravating his injury. So, he might have to consider the option of resting one game which will allow him to feel better for the remaining series.

What are your thoughts?

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