The Minnesota Timberwolves are gearing up for the 2025-26 NBA season, and the first chance for fans to see the team in action is here! The Timberwolves are set to begin their six-game preseason schedule with a neutral-site game against the Denver Nuggets in San Diego. With a mix of returning veterans and promising young talent, this preseason offers a glimpse into what the Wolves hope will be a successful campaign. This article provides all the details on how to watch or listen to the game, along with a preview of what to expect.
The Timberwolves and Nuggets have developed an exciting rivalry in recent years, making this preseason matchup particularly intriguing. Expect to see key players get their first run of the season, while young players will battle to prove they deserve playing time. Here’s everything you need to know about the Timberwolves’ preseason opener.
How to Watch and Listen
The Timberwolves’ preseason game against the Denver Nuggets is scheduled for Saturday at 8 p.m. Central Time (6 p.m. local time in San Diego). Unfortunately, the game will not be televised on FanDuel Sports Network North. The only way to watch the game live is through NBA League Pass, where you can catch the Nuggets’ Altitude TV broadcast.
For those who prefer to listen, Alan Horton will be on the call for Timberwolves radio. You can tune in to KFAN FM 100.3, access the stream through the Timberwolves app, or use the iHeart Radio app to catch all the action.
Preview
The Timberwolves and Nuggets face off in San Diego at Pechanga Arena, a venue with a history of hosting NBA and ABA games. While it might seem unusual for these teams to play a preseason game in Southern California, it offers a unique opportunity for local fans to see NBA basketball. The arena has hosted various sports events since the Clippers left in 1984, and now it welcomes the Timberwolves and Nuggets.
The rivalry between the Timberwolves and Nuggets has intensified over the past few seasons. Their playoff matchups in 2023 and 2024 were filled with drama, including the Nuggets’ championship run in 2023 and the Timberwolves’ thrilling Game 7 victory in the 2024 Western Conference Semifinals. While preseason games don’t carry the same weight, expect both teams to approach the game with intensity.
Timberwolves coach Chris Finch is expected to give ample playing time to most of the 21-player preseason roster. The starting lineup, potentially featuring Mike Conley, Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, Julius Randle, and Rudy Gobert, should see early action. Additionally, key bench players will rotate in to showcase their abilities. The second half of the game will likely feature young talents such as Terrence Shannon Jr., Rob Dillingham, Jaylen Clark, and rookies Joan Beringer and Rocco Zikarsky.
One player who will be unavailable for the Timberwolves is forward Leonard Miller, who is recovering from a significant finger laceration. His absence may extend throughout the entire preseason.
Projected Starters
While the preseason is a time for experimentation, it’s still worth considering who might start for the Timberwolves. Based on last season’s lineups and training camp reports, here’s a possible look at the starting five:
- Point Guard: Mike Conley
- Shooting Guard: Anthony Edwards
- Small Forward: Jaden McDaniels
- Power Forward: Julius Randle
- Center: Rudy Gobert
This lineup provides a blend of scoring, defense, and experience. However, Coach Finch might use different combinations to evaluate player chemistry and fit.
Players to Watch
Besides the established stars, several players will be under the spotlight during the preseason:
- Terrence Shannon Jr.: A young guard looking to make an impact off the bench.
- Rob Dillingham: A rookie with scoring potential who could add a spark to the offense.
- Jaylen Clark: A defensive-minded player aiming to carve out a role with his hustle and intensity.
- Joan Beringer and Rocco Zikarsky: Two rookies eager to prove they belong in the NBA.
These players will be competing for playing time and looking to demonstrate their value to the team.
Remaining Preseason Schedule
Here is the Timberwolves’ complete preseason schedule:
- Saturday, Oct. 4: vs. Nuggets (San Diego) — NBA League Pass
- Tuesday, Oct. 7: vs. Pacers — FanDuel Sports Network North
- Thursday, Oct. 9: at Knicks — NBA TV
- Monday, Oct. 13: vs. Guangzhou Loong Lions — TBD
- Thursday, Oct. 16: at Bulls — FanDuel Sports Network North
- Friday, Oct. 17: at 76ers — NBA League Pass
This schedule provides a mix of home and away games, offering different challenges and opportunities for the Timberwolves.
Conclusion
As the Timberwolves prepare to tip off their preseason schedule in San Diego, fans have plenty to look forward to. This game offers a first look at the 2025-26 team, featuring a blend of established stars and promising young players. While the game won’t be televised locally, fans can catch the action through NBA League Pass or listen via Timberwolves radio.
Keep an eye on the projected starters and the young talents vying for playing time. With a mix of exciting matchups and opportunities for player development, this preseason promises to be an important tune-up for the Timberwolves’ upcoming campaign. Tune in and get ready for another season of Timberwolves basketball!
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