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Lakers Faces Timberwolves on 3-Game Road Slide

The Lakers and the Timberwolves will both be trying to pick up a win when they battle at Target Center.

(Photo by Getty Images) Anthony Davis

LA Lakers (13-11) at Minnesota (12-11)

  • When: Dec 13 2024, 8:00 PM
  • Where: Target Center, Minneapolis, MN, USA
  • TV: FDSN

Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total

Los Angeles Lakers @ Minnesota Timberwolves
Moneyline

Los Angeles Lakers   +305
Minnesota Timberwolves   -410

Los Angeles Lakers @ Minnesota Timberwolves
Point Spread

Los Angeles Lakers   9.0 (-110)
Minnesota Timberwolves   -9.0 (-110)

Los Angeles Lakers @ Minnesota Timberwolves
Total

Over   213.0 (-110)
Under   213.0 (-110)

Key Players:
LA Lakers: Anthony Davis
Minnesota: Anthony Edwards

Team Stats

Lakers   Timberwolves
13-11 Record 12-11
5-8 Away & Home 7-4
3-7 Last 10 5-5
W1 Streak L1

Last Matchup:
MIN 109-80, December 2nd, 2024

Game Preview

The Minnesota Timberwolves have leaned heavily on Rudy Gobert’s defensive presence since his arrival, but his impact extends to the offensive side, particularly in setting screens for Anthony Edwards. This duo will be a key focus when the Timberwolves host the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night in Minneapolis.

Minnesota, winners of four of their last five, is riding high thanks in part to the growing chemistry between Gobert and Edwards. Timberwolves coach Chris Finch praised their connection, particularly how Gobert’s elite screen-setting opens up scoring opportunities for Edwards. Finch highlighted Edwards’ improved willingness to take three-pointers and find Gobert for scoring chances in the paint, creating a balanced offensive dynamic.

For bettors, Minnesota’s recent form and home advantage make them an appealing pick against a struggling Lakers squad. Los Angeles has dropped seven of their last 10 games, and their chances might diminish further with LeBron James reportedly unlikely to play due to foot soreness. James, averaging 23.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 9.1 assists this season, remains the Lakers’ centerpiece, and his absence could significantly impact the team’s competitiveness.

Anthony Davis has been the Lakers’ standout performer, averaging 27.5 points and 11.2 rebounds, while Austin Reaves contributes 16.7 points per game. However, Los Angeles’ depth has been inconsistent, and they’ll need a collective effort to stay competitive, especially without LeBron’s leadership.

Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards leads the Timberwolves with 26.4 points per game, supported by Julius Randle’s 20.4 points and Naz Reid’s 12.7 points off the bench. The Timberwolves also boast a strong home-court advantage, which they demonstrated in their Dec. 2 meeting with the Lakers, a 109-80 rout that saw balanced scoring across their roster.

For bettors, the Timberwolves’ recent dominance over the Lakers and their strong home performance make them the favorite in this matchup. The Lakers’ defensive lapses and potential absence of LeBron add to their challenges. Look for Minnesota to cover the spread as they aim to secure another statement win against a Western Conference rival.

Handicappers Picks – Join for Free

NBA Parlay Picks & Predictions

Final Score: Minnesota 112-98
Expert Pick: Minnesota -9 & Under 213
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $364

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