Timberwolves and their defense to lockdown the Thunder

Tony Reyes
By , Updated on: Nov 28, 2023 12:00 AM
Karl Anthony-Towns defends the rim against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
  • When: Tuesday, November 28 at 8:10 PM ET
  • Who: OKC Thunder at Minnesota Timberwolves
  • Where: Target Center in Minneapolis, MN

Let's set the stage. The Minnesota Timberwolves, bolstered by their impenetrable defense, are set to clash with the Oklahoma City Thunder. 

The spotlight, however, is on Anthony Edwards, the Timberwolves' jack-of-all-trades, whose season stats are off the charts. 

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Game Preview

Let's take a look at the money line odds for this matchup between the Thunder and the Timberwolves.

MoneylineBovadaBetOnlineBetUS
Thunder+149+150+148
Timberwolves-165-168-170

All signs point to the Minnesota Timberwolves, led by their defensive prowess and Anthony Edwards's all-round play, to put a lid on Oklahoma City in their upcoming NBA matchup.

Why, you ask? Let's break it down.

Edwards's numbers are insane, no doubt. He leads the Timberwolves in scoring, averaging an impressive 26.6 points per game, complemented by 5.9 rebounds and 5.3 assists.

Mike Conley contributes to the team's performance with averages of 10.4 points, 5.8 assists, and 2.8 rebounds per game. Meanwhile, Rudy Gobert adds 12.1 points, 1.3 assists, and an impressive 11.3 rebounds per matchup.

In terms of three-point shooting, Edwards leads the active Timberwolves, making an average of 2.5 shots per game from beyond the arc.

Defensively, Edwards showcases his skills with an average of 1.4 steals per game, while Gobert excels in shot-blocking, swatting away an impressive 2.2 shots per contest.

In the 2023-24 season, the Timberwolves score 2.0 more points per home game on average than on the road (114.4 at home, 112.4 on the road), but are allowing 11.0 fewer points per home game compared to road games (100.9 at home, 111.9 on the road).

Minnesota Timberwolves To win game
BetUS
-170

Let's take a look at the other side of the court and what the Thunder are bringing to the court. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has delivered an impressive performance this season, showcasing strong scoring and facilitating skills with averages of 30.4 points and 6.2 assists per game, complemented by 6.1 rebounds per contest.

Chet Holmgren has been a valuable contributor with per-game averages of 18.1 points, 2.5 assists, and 8.0 rebounds.

Isaiah Joe demonstrates his proficiency beyond the arc by knocking down an average of 2.9 three-pointers per game.

On the defensive end, Gilgeous-Alexander's 2.3 steals and Holmgren's 2.3 blocks per game play a crucial role in bolstering the Thunder's defensive efforts.

The Thunder will also be getting Jalen Williams back in the lineup. He returns to the lineup averaging 17.5 points per game while shooting 52% from the field and 37% from 3.

OKC Thunder To win game
BetUS
+148

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Total Points

Total RunsBovadaBetOnlineBetUS
Over 225.5 Points-110-110-110
Under 225.5 Points-110-110-110

So, why the under? Simple. It's all about the Timberwolves' defense.

The Timberwolves have been one of the best defensive teams in the league this season. They're not just stopping opponents; they're shutting them down. 

This defensive dominance will be the cornerstone of their victory against Oklahoma City. With the Wolves' focus on defense, it's likely that despite his explosive play, Edwards may not need to rack up as many points, assists, or rebounds.

Moreover, the Timberwolves' success this season isn't just about Edwards. He's been phenomenal, but it's a team sport, folks.

The Wolves' winning record is a testament to their depth and balance. When one player's stats dip, others step up. That's the sign of a solid team.

So, while I'm all in for the Timberwolves to take this game at -170 on the money line, I'm also betting under 225.5 points at -110 odds. Why? The Timberwolves' defense isn't just about stopping the other team; it's about controlling the pace of the game and reducing scoring opportunities on both ends of the court.

While Edwards will undoubtedly make his presence felt, I believe the Timberwolves' game plan will focus on their defensive strength, which will impact the overall scoring, including Edwards's numbers. 

So, if you're looking to make a wager, consider the under and the Timberwolves' defense to seal the victory. Remember, it's not just about one player's stats; it's about the performance of the team as a whole. 

And the Timberwolves have what it takes to win this one.

Under 225.5 Points OKC Thunder vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
BetUS
-110

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Meet the author

Tony Reyes

With years of experience as an analyst, Tony brings an expert voice to picks and predictions. His passion for sports betting is evident in his coverage, which not only informs and entertains but also shares his love for the game. When he's not watching or covering t...

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