Wolves-L.A. Lakers game preview

Preview: Something's got to give: The Timberwolves have won lost four consecutive games, six of seven, 15 of 17 and 27 of 33 since starting 8-8. The Lakers (9-41) have lost nine consecutive games and 13 of 14 after Sunday's 101-82 home loss to a Charlotte team that played without Al Jefferson, Nicolas Batum and Cody Zeller. … The Wolves have won the series' first two meetings by a point each. They overcame a 16-point deficit on the road to win the season opener 112-111 three days after Flip Saunders died. They beat the Lakers 123-122 in overtime at Target Center on Dec. 9 in what was Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant's final game played in Minnesota. … The Wolves recalled F Adreian Payne from Erie of the Development League after he averaged 26.3 points, 9.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 2.3 steals in three games.

Players to watch: Bryant has missed two of the past four games because of a sore right shoulder and is listed as questionable, but he scored 23 points in 23 minutes Sunday. … Wolves C Karl-Anthony Towns leads all rookies with 25 double-doubles after he had 21 points and 13 rebounds in Sunday's 96-93 loss at Portland. It was his 13th game with at least 20 points and 10 rebounds, and he is averaging 23.2 points on 64.8 percent shooting with 12.4 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 2.3 blocks in his past six games.

Injuries: F Kevin Garnett (sore knee), C Nikola Pekovic (sore foot) and G Kevin Martin (sore wrist) all are listed as doubtful for the Wolves. Bryant is listed as questionable and F Larry Nance Jr. (sore knee) is listed as out for the Lakers.

JERRY ZGODA