Minnesota Timberwolves rookie Justin Patton underwent surgery on a broken fifth metatarsal in his left foot, the team announced on Tuesday. Patton will be out indefinitely as he recovers. The injury occurred during a recent timeout according to the Wolves.
Patton, the 16th overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, was acquired in a draft day trade that saw Jimmy Butler’s move to the Wolves. The former Creighton player also signed his contract to officially join the Wolves on Tuesday.
At 6-11, Patton’s injury is concerning due to the long history of big men not recovering from foot injuries. Fortunately, the Wolves will not need to speed up Patton’s recovery.
Minnesota goes into the season likely prepared to start Taj Gibson and Karl-Anthony Towns at the four and five spots. Now positioned to compete for the playoffs, Patton’s role on the team would not have been a large one had he been healthy.
Patton will have time to recover which is important as there could be a high chance of re-injury depending on the nature of his original problem.
