The Minnesota Timberwolves will face the Portland Trail Blazers on February 13 (Tuesday). Minnesota leads 2-1 in its current away schedule and holds a 1-0 lead against Portland in the season series. The Timberwolves will play back-to-back, but they will be desperate to remain unbeaten against the Blazers. Unlike their upcoming opponents, Portland is struggling badly, especially on offense. Their attack will need to step up on Tuesday. The Timberwolves are coming off an impressive 121-100 win over the LA Clippers. With their stellar defense, Minnesota shut down LA’s high-powered offense. If Portland fails to execute its game plan, the Timberwolves will likely add the hosts to their list of victims.
Preview
The Timberwolves have led the NBA in defensive rating most of the season. They don’t have to worry about Kawhi Leonard, Paul George and James Harden scoring points. Minnesota will have to contend with the Blazers team, which has struggled to score. If Portland can’t get its act together, it will be quick for the Timberwolves to win.
Anfernee Simmons will be available for the Blazers, but Malcolm Brogdon and Shaedon Sharpe are out. Scoot Henderson is questionable. Jerami Grant is playing well, but he can’t carry Portland on his own. Others will have to play well to have a chance to beat the Timberwolves.
Starting lineup
The Minnesota Timberwolves will most likely start with Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, Karl-Anthony Towns, Rudy Gobert and Mike Conley. For the Blazers, only Jerami Grant, DeAndre Ayton and Anfernee Simmons are guaranteed starters. If Scoot Henderson is cleared, he will likely be the fourth player in the rotation. Otherwise, Matisse Thybulle and Jabari Walker will start the game.
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Prediction
The Minnesota Timberwolves defense is in great form. Despite playing the second game of a back-to-back set, they will unlikely get an off night. Their ability to shut down opponents will likely be enough to stop the struggling Portland Trail Blazers. Minnesota can extend its winning streak to three with a blowout win over the Portland Blazers.
