- This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Cleveland (21-17) at Minnesota (24-13)
- When: Jan 8 2026, 8:00 PM
- Where: Target Center, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- TV: FDSN
Cleveland vs Minnesota Preview & Prediction
Spread: Minnesota -2.5
Moneyline: Minnesota (-135)
Total: 240.0
Minnesota Timberwolves Betting Outlook
Minnesota enters Thursday night playing with purpose after what can only be described as a complete reset. Following an ugly road loss in Atlanta that raised real questions internally, the Timberwolves have responded with three straight wins, capped by a dominant blowout of Miami.
That Atlanta game served as a turning point. Effort was lacking, body language was poor, and the response afterward has been exactly what bettors want to see. Since then, Minnesota has defended with urgency, moved the ball with intent, and attacked the paint with confidence. At home, that version of the Timberwolves is dangerous.
Anthony Edwards continues to lead the charge. His scoring pressure opens everything else up, and Minnesota looks far more connected when he sets the tone early. Julius Randle has added steady secondary offense, while Jaden McDaniels is being featured more aggressively, giving Minnesota another scoring option defenses must respect.
From a betting perspective, Minnesota favored by 2.5 reflects current form and home court edge. The Timberwolves have played faster, cleaner basketball recently, and their confidence level is clearly trending upward.
Minnesota Player Prop Pick: Anthony Edwards over 30.5 points – Edwards’ usage spikes in home games and when Minnesota plays with pace. He remains the engine of the offense.
Cleveland Cavaliers Betting Outlook
Cleveland comes in playing solid basketball of its own, winning four of its last five games. The Cavaliers just earned a tough road win at Indiana, showing composure late and strong guard play when it mattered most.
Darius Garland has begun to look more like himself. After missing time earlier in the season, his rhythm is returning, and he has been far more assertive attacking defenders. Cleveland relies on Garland to create advantages, especially when games turn into half court battles.
The Cavaliers also benefit from reliable perimeter shooting. When Cleveland’s role players knock down open looks, their offense becomes difficult to contain. The concern comes defensively against high tempo teams, as Cleveland can struggle when opponents push the pace and attack early in the shot clock.
As an underdog, Cleveland is capable of hanging around if they control turnovers and keep Minnesota out of transition. Falling behind early would force them into a pace they would prefer to avoid.
Cleveland Player Prop Pick: Darius Garland over 6.5 assists – Garland’s playmaking role expands when Cleveland trails or plays in high scoring environments.
Betting Outlook and Prediction
Minnesota is favored by 2.5 with the total set at 240.0, signaling an expectation of pace and offense. Both teams are capable of scoring in bunches, but Minnesota’s recent defensive focus and home energy give them the edge.
Expect Cleveland to compete early before Minnesota’s athleticism and shot creation separate late.
Final Score: Minnesota 124, Cleveland 118
Lean: Minnesota -2.5
Total: Over 240.0
- NBA Basketball Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
