The Minnesota Timberwolves will be without guard Terrence Shannon Jr. for at least the next couple of weeks, following an injury suffered during the team’s Christmas Day matchup against the Denver Nuggets. Shannon exited that game early with what was initially described as left foot soreness. Now, after further evaluation, the team has more clarity on the issue.
Per the Timberwolves, an MRI conducted at the Mayo Clinic revealed that Shannon is dealing with a strain to the abductor hallucis muscle in his left foot - a smaller, stabilizing muscle that plays a key role in foot movement and balance. It’s not the type of injury that typically makes headlines, but it can be tricky for a player whose game relies on quickness and lateral movement. Shannon will be re-evaluated in two weeks, and the team will monitor his recovery closely before making any decisions about his return to action.
The injury comes at a time when Shannon had been finding his rhythm in Minnesota’s rotation. Now in his second NBA season, the 25-year-old has become a steady contributor off the bench.
Through 22 games this year, he’s averaging 4.5 points and 1.3 rebounds in just under 13 minutes a night, shooting nearly 40% from the field and a strong 40.5% from beyond the arc. That kind of floor spacing has been valuable for a Timberwolves second unit that leans on its depth to maintain leads and wear teams down over four quarters.
In his most recent appearance - the high-scoring 142-138 loss to Denver - Shannon played 10 minutes but struggled to find his footing, going 0-for-3 from the field and finishing without a point, rebound, or assist before being ruled out for the remainder of the game. While it wasn’t a standout performance, it’s now clear that the foot issue may have been affecting him even before he left the floor.
Minnesota, sitting at 20-11 heading into Saturday night’s matchup with the Brooklyn Nets, has been one of the West’s more consistent teams this season. While Shannon isn’t a headline name, his absence will be felt in the rotation - especially as the team navigates a stretch of the season where depth and health often separate contenders from the pack.
The Timberwolves haven’t provided a specific timetable beyond the two-week re-evaluation window, and any return will depend on how Shannon responds to treatment. For now, Minnesota will need to lean on other bench options to fill the void, particularly when it comes to perimeter defense and spot-up shooting.
Tipoff against the Nets is set for 8:00 p.m. ET.