Preview: Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Washington Wizards - February 16, 23

Odds

2022-2023 season stats

Preview

The Minnesota Timberwolves return home to play the final game of the first half of the season and will host the Washington Wizards at the Target Center on Thursday night. These teams already faced each other earlier this season in Washington where the Wizards won in a high scoring game 142-127.  

Minnesota Timberwolves

On their recent away game, the Timberwolves emerged victorious against the Mavericks with a score of 124-121. Guard Anthony Edwards, who was selected for the All-Star team for the first time, put up an impressive 32 points, while Rudy Gobert contributed 21 points and 14 rebounds to the team's efforts. In the third quarter, Edwards' long step-back jumper gave the Timberwolves their biggest lead of the game at 89-63, securing a solid advantage that helped them ultimately win the game.

Edwards Double Double

While the Minnesota Timberwolves have been a team to watch this season, their defense has been a weak spot. Despite their solid record of 31-29 and a 20-12 record at home, the Timberwolves are ranked 8th in the Western Conference in team defense, giving up an average of 115.6 points per game. Their opponents have been shooting 46.6% from the field, which is not a good sign for the team's defensive capabilities.

However, the Timberwolves have managed to make up for their lackluster defense with a strong offense. Anthony Edwards has been a standout player, averaging 23.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. D'Angelo Russell has also been putting up impressive numbers, averaging 15.2 points and 5.2 assists over the last 10 games for Minnesota. 

In their last 10 games, the Timberwolves have been averaging an impressive 119.2 points per game, while shooting a remarkable 50.2% from the field. They have also managed to maintain a solid rebounding, assisting, stealing, and blocking game, with averages of 42.3 rebounds, 27.4 assists, 7.0 steals, and 4.7 blocks per game.

Despite their less-than-stellar defense, the Timberwolves have managed to hold their own this season, and are still in the hunt for a playoff spot. If they can improve their defensive game, they could become a force to be reckoned with in the league. For now, though, the Timberwolves' focus will likely remain on continuing to develop their offensive game and securing a playoff spot.

Washington Wizards

On Tuesday night, the Washington Wizards secured a 126-101 victory against the Portland Trail Blazers, thanks in large part to an impressive performance from Kyle Kuzma. After returning from an ankle sprain, Kuzma scored 33 points and made six 3-pointers, helping to lead the team to victory. Kristaps Porzingis also had a strong showing, contributing 28 points and 12 rebounds to the Wizards' efforts. With this win, the Wizards have now won three of their last four games, and will look to maintain their momentum as the season continues.

One of the Wizards' strengths is their defensive rebounding, with the team ranking fourth in the NBA with an average of 34.7 defensive rebounds per game. Leading the charge in this category is Kristaps Porzingis, who has been averaging an impressive 6.9 rebounds per game, while also contributing 22.2 points and 1.5 blocks per game.

Kyle Kuzma has also been a key player for the Wizards, particularly from beyond the arc, averaging 2.8 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games for Washington.

In their last 10 games, the Wizards have been putting up some solid numbers, averaging 117.5 points, 43.2 rebounds, 26.1 assists, 7.1 steals, and 5.8 blocks per game, while shooting an impressive 51.0% from the field. While their opponents have managed to average 112.8 points per game, the Wizards' well-rounded game has allowed them to maintain a competitive edge.

As the season continues, it will be interesting to see if the Wizards can maintain their momentum and secure a spot in the playoffs. With players like Porzingis and Kuzma leading the charge, there's no doubt that this team has what it takes to compete at a high level in the league.

BETTING TRENDS

Washington are 9-4 SU in their last 13 games.

Washington are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 games against Minnesota.

Washington are 6-0 SU in their last 6 games against Minnesota.

Washington are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games on the road.

Washington are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games when playing on the road against Minnesota.

Washington are 5-2 SU in their last 7 games against an opponent in the Western Conference conference.

Minnesota are 10-5 ATS in their last 15 games.

The total has gone OVER in 6 of Minnesota's last 6 games.

The total has gone OVER in 10 of Minnesota's last 10 games against Washington.

Minnesota are 11-3 SU in their last 14 games at home.

Prediction

The Timberwolves are coming off a thrilling victory against the Mavericks on the road, despite Kyrie and Luka Doncic being on the court. They managed to secure a three-point victory in a game that showcased their offensive firepower and strong team play. The Wizards are also entering this game with some momentum, having won three of their last four games, including a recent victory against the Blazers. The Wizards have been averaging an impressive 117 points per game in their recent games, showcasing their ability to score at will.

The last time these two teams met, they put on a high-scoring show that saw them combine for a total of 269 points. Given the current form of both teams and their offensive prowess, it's safe to say that we can expect another high-scoring game. Fans should be on the lookout for some thrilling offensive displays, with both teams capable of putting up big numbers.

In light of this, taking the over seems like a wise decision. While it's difficult to predict the outcome of this game, one thing is for sure - we can expect a lot of points to be scored. So sit back, relax, and get ready for an exciting game between two teams that are firing on all cylinders.

PICK: Over 235 (-110)

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