The Minnesota Timberwolves are set to face the struggling Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday in a highly anticipated matchup at State Farm Arena, with tip-off scheduled for 3 p.m. ET. The Timberwolves, currently holding a 21-12 record, are riding high after a commanding 136-101 victory over the Chicago Bulls, in which center Naz Reid scored a season-best 33 points coming off the bench. The Wolves capitalized on the Bulls’ 17 turnovers, converting them into 24 points as they dominated the game.
Conversely, the Hawks, with a 15-19 record, are in a challenging stretch, having suffered seven consecutive losses, including a recent defeat to the Oklahoma City Thunder, where they fell 140-129 despite covering as a 17-point underdog. Guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker led his team with 30 points in that outing, but Atlanta has struggled defensively, allowing at least 126 points in each of its last nine losses.
According to BetMGM Sportsbook, the Timberwolves are favored at -180 on the moneyline, while the Hawks sit at +154. The spread is set at Timberwolves -4.5, while the over/under for the game is established at 243.5 points. The injury report indicates that Timberwolves forward/guard Terrence Shannon Jr. is out due to a foot injury, while Hawks star Trae Young is listed as questionable with a quad issue.
Predictions for the game suggest a tight contest, with the Timberwolves projected to win 128-126. Despite being the favorites, experts suggest that betting on Minnesota at heavy odds might be risky. However, the Hawks have a strong recent record against Minnesota, going 9-1 against the spread in their last ten encounters, including five consecutive covers.
Key players to watch include Alexander-Walker, who is expected to shine against his former team, and Jalen Johnson, who, along with Young, may play a crucial role in keeping the game competitive. Given both teams’ recent offensive performances, there is a strong inclination to bet on the over, which has hit in Minnesota’s last three games and has been a common outcome in their recent matchups.
As fans eagerly await the outcome, this matchup represents a pivotal moment for both franchises, with the Timberwolves looking to maintain their momentum while the Hawks try to rebound and reclaim their competitive edge.