Published
Updated
Author
  • The Timberwolves are 14-11 and have the third-best record in the Northwest Division.
  • New York is 16-10 and has the second-best record in the Atlantic Division.
  • These teams last played on Jan. 1, with the Knicks claiming a 112-106 victory.

Another of the marquee games on tap from Thursday night’s NBA slate features the Minnesota Timberwolves squaring off against the New York Knicks. Our Timberwolves vs Knicks prediction foresees the team from the Twin Cities coming out on top.

Minnesota Seeks Its Third Three-Game Win Streak

On the heels of a 114-106 setback against the Golden State Warriors on Dec. 8, the Timberwolves have notched back-to-back double-digit wins over the Los Angeles Lakers (97-87) and the San Antonio Spurs (106-92). Four of the team’s starters reached double figures, headlined by a 26-point, five-rebound effort from Anthony Edwards.

Jaden McDaniels finished with 12 points, 11 boards, and four steals. Julius Randle added 11 points and four rebounds, while Rudy Gobert chipped in with 10 points and nine rebounds. Minnesota led by 15 points at halftime, but thanks to a 20-9 run to start the third quarter, San Antonio trimmed the deficit to six points (76-70) heading into the final frame. Minnesota responded with a 30-22 scoring advantage in the final 12 minutes to cruise to a 14-point victory.

Knicks Searching For Consistency

The Knicks have been up and down in their last four outings, but enter this matchup on the heels of a 100-91 victory against the Orlando Magic on Sunday night. New York produced a balanced scoring attack, with four starters reaching double figures. Jalen Brunson led the pack with 31 points and handed out five assists.

Karl-Anthony Towns was a force, finishing with 22 points, 22 rebounds, and five assists. Meanwhile, Mikal Bridges added 17 points, and Josh Hart contributed 12 points, five assists, and four steals. The Knicks won the rebounding battle by a 45-39 advantage and held Orlando to 30 percent shooting from 3-point range.

Timberwolves vs Knicks Prediction: Minnesota Wins A Close One

While their 14-11 record isn’t overly impressive, the Timberwolves have some things going for them. They have won six of their previous seven games. Additionally, they are ranked third in scoring defense (105.6 PPG) and have the fourth-best defensive rating (107.2 Points Per 100 Possessions).

On the other side of the matchup, despite their inconsistent play over the past four games, the Knicks have won six of their previous eight contests. Not only that, but they are also a top-10 team in scoring, and they have the third-best offensive rating in the association. But if you are of the opinion that defense wins championships, then the Timberwolves have the edge in this one.

Leave a Comment