Jefferson Expected To Play Opening Night

The Minnesota Timberwolves’ front office expects power forward/center Al Jefferson to be ready for opening night this upcoming season.  Timberwolves President David Kahn told Rick Kamla (NBA.com) that Jefferson will resume basketball related activities on August 21st and should be ready for the season.  Assistant GM Rob Babcock mirrored those exact words during a Summer League broadcast of the Wolves and Washington Wizards.

Jefferson went down last February with a torn ACL on his right knee to end his season.  In 50 games prior to his injury last season, he averaged an impressive 23.1 points and 11 rebounds.  Power Forward Kevin Love filled in for Jefferson, after starting the season as mainly a reserve off the bench.

The 24 year old franchise power forward (or center?) is still very young, and should have little problem healing and recovering before the season starts.  Babcock did warn during his interview on the game’s broadcast that Jefferson may not be completely 100% and may not be the same player to start the season, but still effective.

Forward Corey Brewer had a similar injury in December, and is now playing for the Wolves’ Summer League team.  Brewer though, is a much lighter player and does not put as much weight on his knees as Jefferson does.

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