Nikola Pekovic Injury: Updates on Timberwolves Center's Ankle and Return

Updates from Sunday, Mar. 16

Mark Remme of the Timberwolves updated Nikola Pekovic's status:

Head coach Rick Adelman spoke about Pekovic's status (via Andy Greder of the St. Paul Pioneer-Press):

Updates from Saturday, Mar. 1

The Timberwolves announced that Pekovic is back for Saturday's game:

Updates from Thursday, Feb. 20

After missing the last 10 games due to an ankle injury, Nikola Pekovic is inching closer to a return to the team according to Andy Greder of the St. Paul Pioneer Press:

Original Text

The Minnesota Timberwolves will be without Nikola Pekovic for at least a week after it was confirmed Tuesday, Jan. 28, that the bruising center has bursitis in his right ankle.     

ESPN's Marc Stein reported the news:

Meanwhile, CBS Sports' Ken Berger suggested Pek may be sidelined for a bit a longer, noting that he won't even be re-evaluated until a week from now:

Pekovic, who left Monday night's game against the Chicago Bulls after just six minutes, is averaging a career-high 18.0 points and 9.1 rebounds per contest. Per NBA.com, the 'Wolves have been 4.0 points per 100 possessions better with their immovable center on the court.     

This more than likely ends Pekovic's All-Star reserve candidacy, which was starting to gain steam as of late. But perhaps there's still a way he can go to New Orleans if this injury prevents him from being named to the team. 

Minnesota Timberwolves/Associated Press

"I would love to bring Pek with me," frontcourt mate Kevin Love said, via NBA.com. "And if he doesn't make the game maybe he can be my bodyguard down there."

For the T-Wolves, who are currently 22-22 and on the outside looking into the West playoff picture, veteran energy man Ronny Turiaf will need to step up in Pekovic's absence. 

Charles Rex Arbogast/Associated Press

After finishing with 14 points, seven rebounds and three blocks in 32 minutes to help the short-handed 'Wolves beat the Bulls Monday, the former Gonzaga star talked about what he brings to the team, via The Star-Tribune's Kent Youngblood:

“Just trying to bring my game. Set the screens, roll to the basket, play hard. Just be there for my teammates. It’s the usual me.”

Rookie Gorgui Dieng also figures to see more minutes in Pekovic's stead.