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Is Julius Randle playing tonight? (Image via Getty)
The Minnesota Timberwolves enter Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals with a rare advantage - a completely healthy roster. Julius Randle, a key contributor for the team, is not listed on the injury report and will be available without restrictions for this crucial matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Julius Randle's injury status for Western Conference Finals Game 5 (May 28, 2025)
Julius Randle has not appeared on the Minnesota Timberwolves' injury report for multiple consecutive games, including this decisive Game 5. Medical staff have cleared him with no lingering concerns from earlier in the postseason. His durability stands out during this intense playoff stretch where many teams are battling fatigue and injuries. Key points about Randle's availability: - No restrictions on playing time - No recurring issues from previous games - Full participation in recent practices
Juluis Randle's playoff performance shows resilience
After a disappointing Game 2 where Randle shot just 2-for-11 and sat during the fourth quarter, he responded strongly in Game 3.
His 24-point performance helped fuel Minnesota's 143-101 blowout victory. This bounce-back ability has been characteristic of Randle's postseason contributions. Playoff averages for Randle: - 18.7 points per game - 7.1 rebounds per game - 4.7 assists per game His physical presence in the paint and scoring versatility have created consistent problems for Oklahoma City's younger frontcourt players. Randle's ability to both score inside and facilitate for teammates provides Minnesota with crucial offensive balance alongside Anthony Edwards.
What Julius Randle brings to Minnesota Timberwolves vs OKC Thunder Western Conference Finals Game 5 (May 28, 2025)
With Minnesota facing elimination, Randle's role becomes even more vital. His health allows coach Chris Finch to deploy him in extended minutes for both offensive creation and defensive physicality. The Thunder will need to account for Randle's improved recent form and his capacity to exploit defensive mismatches. Critical factors for Randle in Game 5: - Maintaining aggression in the paint - Capitalizing on smaller defenders - Providing secondary playmaking - Defensive rebounding presence
Minnesota's injury-free roster provides advantage
The Minnesota Timberwolves enter this elimination game with no players listed on their injury report, a rarity in the conference finals.
This full-strength roster gives them flexibility in rotations and strategy that other playoff teams currently lack. Comparison to other playoff teams: - Several contenders dealing with key injuries - Minnesota's depth remains intact - No minute restrictions on starters Julius Randle's availability ensures Minnesota can play their preferred physical style against Oklahoma City's younger lineup. His health and recent performances suggest he'll be a central figure as the Minnesota Timberwolves attempt to extend their season and force a Game 6.Also read: How to watch Oklahoma City Thunder vs Minnesota Timberwolves Western Conference Finals Game 5 online for freeThe stage is set for Randle to impact this elimination game with his scoring, rebounding, and veteran presence - all while operating at full health when his team needs him most.