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NBA: The potential long-term impact of the 2018 Western Conference playoff race

By FanSided User

OAKLAND, CA - JANUARY 25: Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts during their game against the Golden State Warriors at ORACLE Arena on January 25, 2018 in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CA - JANUARY 25: Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts during their game against the Golden State Warriors at ORACLE Arena on January 25, 2018 in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /
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Minnesota Timberwolves

Record: 38-29 (6th)

Making the playoffs is no longer a foregone conclusion for the Minnesota Timberwolves after Jimmy Butler went down with a meniscus injury. He is expected to miss the remainder of the regular season, but could make a return for the playoffs.

They are going to need Andrew Wiggins and Karl-Anthony Towns to step up and show the growth that many were expecting to see last year. They have a good number of wins banked but, with as tight as things are out West, they have no room for error.

Extending the franchise’s 13-year playoff drought would be devastating for a team that looked terrific with Jimmy Butler in the lineup.