The Portland Trail Blazers will face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday at the Target Center. This will be the fourth and final meeting between the two teams this season. The Blazers are coming off a 107-100 win over the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday. Anfernee Simons finished the game with 30 points, seven rebounds and seven assists. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Timberwolves are in second place in the Western Conference with a 42-19 record. They are coming off an 88-89 loss to the LA Clippers at home. Despite the defeat, Anthony Edwards finished with 27 points, five rebounds, two assists and three steals.
Preview
Minnesota has won the first three matchups against Portland this season. In their most recent clash on February 15, the Timberwolves demonstrated their efficiency and defensive prowess. They shot an impressive 51.7% from the field, while holding the Trail Blazers to just 37.3% shooting. They maintained a dominant presence throughout the game, leading by 38 points and never trailing by more than two.
The Portland Trail Blazers are currently struggling on the offense, averaging 107.5 points per game, which ranks them 29th in the league. The Blazers are averaging 41.9 rebounds and 22.7 assists per game while committing 15.1 turnovers per game. On the defense, Portland allows 115.6 points per game, ranking them 17th in the league.
The Timberwolves had a balanced performance on both ends of the court. Offensively, they are averaging 113.2 points per game. Their shooting accuracy is remarkable. With a 48.6% field goal percentage and an impressive 38.9% from 3-point range.
On Defense, Minnesota leads the way, allowing only 106.3 points per game, the best in the league. Opponents face challenges against them, shooting just 44.4% from the field and 34.8% from 3-point range. The Wolves are also excellent at limiting opponents’ rebounds, allowing only 40.8 per game, which ranks third in the league.
Starting lineup
The Blazers will most likely start with Anfernee Simmons, Kris Murray, Toumani Camara, Jabari Walker and Deandre Ayton. The Wolves will most likely start with Mike Conley, Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert.
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Prediction
The Minnesota Timberwolves are favored to win at home. They are favored at a -14 point spread and -1200 on the moneyline. However, the Blazers are favored to surpass the overmark of 211.5, while the Wolves are expected to go under 212.5. With the Blazers’ offensive struggles, the game total is expected to go under.
