After a dramatic OT loss to the Lakers, the eighth seed Timberwolves host the tenth seed Thunder in a must-win to clinch the final seed in the Western Conference Playoffs. The game is expected to tip-off at 09:30 PM ET, Friday, April 14th, 2023.
Minnesota come into this game a marginal 4.5 point favorite, with both teams fighting to keep their season alive.
MATCH PREVIEW
The Timberwolves and the Thunder are set to face off in the NBA Play-In Tournament, with the winner earning the eighth seed in the Western Conference Playoffs. As both teams look to secure a postseason spot, fans can expect an intense battle on the court.
Minnesota has posted an 8-8 record against Northwest Division opponents and a 15-16 record in games decided by at least 10 points. Their offense has been led by rookie sensation Anthony Edwards, who is averaging 24.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. In the last 10 games, Mike Conley has been an effective sharpshooter from beyond the arc, averaging 2.6 made three-pointers per game for the Timberwolves.
On the other hand, OKC has a 9-7 record in division matchups and a 7-7 record in games decided by 3 points or fewer. Their offense has been propelled by guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is averaging a team-high 31.4 points, 5.5 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. Rookie Josh Giddey has also been a valuable contributor, averaging 18 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game over the last 10 games.
In their last 10 games, the Timberwolves have been on a hot streak, posting a 7-3 record and averaging 117.0 points, 43.6 rebounds, 28.5 assists, 7.1 steals, and 4.7 blocks per game while shooting 49.1 percent from the field. Their opponents have averaged 114.7 points per game.
Meanwhile, Oklahoma have struggled in their last 10 games, recording a 4-6 record and averaging 116.4 points, 42.7 rebounds, 23.6 assists, 8.1 steals, and 2.4 blocks per game while shooting 45.4 percent from the field. Their opponents have averaged 118.1 points.
It is important to note that the T-Wolves will be without Naz Reid, who is out with a wrist injury, and Jaden McDaniels, who is out with a hand injury.
As these two teams face off, fans can expect a highly competitive game, with both sides looking to punch their ticket to the playoffs. The outcome of this matchup will be crucial in determining which team moves forward in the postseason.
ODDS AND PREDICTIONS
The two teams have met four times this season, with the Timberwolves winning three of those games. Minnesota won the first game on their home court and the second on the road. The Thunder got their revenge by winning the third match in Minnesota, but they lost the fourth game at home by a narrow margin.
The home side are facing some challenges due to recent losses and disruptions in their team chemistry. The Thunder, on the other hand, are coming off a big win against the New Orleans Pelicans. Despite having a limited offense, we predict that the Thunder will come out victorious in this game due to their momentum swing and recent performance.
We recommend betting on the Thunder to win. But remember, it’s important to keep in mind that sports betting always involves a degree of risk, and there’s no guarantee that this Thunder team will not be fatigued from their recent matchup, nor that the return of Gobert won’t strengthen the Timberwolves defense. As always, it’s essential to do your research and make an informed decision based on the available data.
Spread: Timberwolves -4.5
Moneyline: Timberwolves -180, Thunder+160
Pick: Thunder ML
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