The Minnesota Timberwolves’ promising rookie Terrence Shannon Jr. has been sidelined with a right foot injury, the team announced Monday. The 19th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft is expected to miss 2-4 weeks after sustaining a Grade 2 mid-foot sprain during a game with the Timberwolves’ G League affiliate, the Iowa Wolves.
Shannon, a springy 6’6″ guard out of Texas Tech, had been splitting time between the Timberwolves and their G League squad early in his rookie campaign. The high-flying 22-year-old has appeared in 10 games for Minnesota, averaging a modest 1.5 points in 4.5 minutes per contest. In Iowa, he was showcasing the athletic slashing and explosive leaping ability that made him a first-round selection.
The injury occurred during the second quarter of Iowa’s game against the Sioux Falls Skyforce on Saturday night. Shannon landed awkwardly after elevating for a dunk attempt and immediately grabbed at his right foot. He underwent an MRI on Sunday which revealed the extent of the sprain.
Road to Recovery
While the news is undoubtedly disappointing for both Shannon and the Timberwolves, there appears to be a clear path to recovery. The team announced that the rookie will be reevaluated in two weeks to gauge his response to treatment and determine the next steps.
For a Grade 2 sprain, which indicates a partial tearing of ligaments, a 2-4 week timetable is not atypical. Shannon will likely be immobilized and kept off the injured foot for the first phase before progressing to light activity and eventually ramping up his conditioning.
The Timberwolves’ performance staff, led by VP of Player Health and Performance Gregg Farnam, will oversee Shannon’s rehab protocol. At just 22 years old, Shannon’s youth and elite-level fitness should aid in his recovery, though the team will assuredly be cautious with their first-round investment.
Opportunity for Others
In Shannon’s absence, look for fellow Timberwolves rookies Josh Minott and Wendell Moore Jr. to soak up additional minutes on the wing. Both second-rounders have had strong showings in limited action and could use this stretch to further solidify their spots in head coach Chris Finch’s rotation.
Veteran Taurean Prince may also see an uptick in playing time, especially if Minnesota prioritizes remaining competitive in a brutally tough Western Conference. Prince’s steady two-way presence could help stabilize the second unit until Shannon is able to return.
Injuries are an unfortunate part of the game, but we’re confident Terrence will attack his rehab with the same tenacity he brings to the court. He has the full support of our organization and we look forward to getting him back on the floor.
– Timberwolves President of Basketball Operations Tim Connelly
The 19th pick displayed immense potential during his lone collegiate season at Texas Tech and had Timberwolves fans excited with his quick-twitch athleticism and disruptive perimeter defense. If all goes well with his recovery, Shannon should be back dunking on opponents and hounding ball-handlers by early December.
Until then, the Timberwolves will have to weather the storm without their 2024 first-rounder. In a loaded Western Conference where the margin for error is razor-thin, every absence is magnified. But if Shannon returns at full strength, he could provide a nice mid-season boost for a Minnesota squad looking to claw their way back to the playoffs.
