LA Lakers (1-1) at Minnesota (1-1)
- When: Apr 25 2025, 9:30 PM
- Where: Target Center, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- TV: ESPN
Lakers vs. Timberwolves Game 3 Betting Preview, Prediction & Player Prop Picks
Spread: Minnesota -3.5 | Total: 207.5
Minnesota Timberwolves Outlook
The Timberwolves return home with the series knotted at 1-1 after a defensive battle in Game 2 where they managed just 85 points—their lowest output all season. Head coach Chris Finch isn’t pressing the panic button. Instead, he’s challenging his team to seize the opportunity now that the series shifts to Minneapolis. After a sloppy Game 2, Finch stressed fundamentals, clean execution, and strong communication.
Anthony Edwards continues to lead the offense, averaging 23.5 points through two games on solid shooting splits (40.9% FG, 35.3% 3PT). He’s gotten support from Julius Randle (21.5 ppg), Jaden McDaniels (16.5), and Naz Reid (16.0), but Minnesota’s offense will need to be sharper to cover the spread at home. Ball movement and limiting turnovers are key.
With the home crowd behind them and defensive pride on the line, expect a more efficient start from Minnesota—especially from their backcourt, which struggled to set the pace last time out.
Timberwolves Prop Picks:
Anthony Edwards Over 22.5 Points
Naz Reid Over 1.5 Threes Made
Jaden McDaniels Over 14.5 Points + Rebounds
Los Angeles Lakers Outlook
After dropping Game 1, the Lakers came out with playoff-level intensity in Game 2, holding Minnesota to just 85 points and grabbing a massive momentum boost with the series now heading north. JJ Redick knows the wild swings of playoff basketball—Game 2 was a rock fight, but Game 3 could flip the script into a shootout.
Luka Doncic has been electric, averaging 34 points per game on 50% shooting and nearly 39% from deep. He’s clearly the engine of L.A.’s offense. LeBron James is steady with 20 points per game, while Austin Reaves (16 ppg) and Rui Hachimura (10 ppg) round out the secondary scoring.
The Lakers’ defense will be key again, but their offense still has room to grow. If James and Doncic can get cleaner looks and the bench contributes a bit more, they have a real shot to not just cover, but steal one in Minnesota.
Lakers Prop Picks:
Luka Doncic Over 31.5 Points
LeBron James Over 6.5 Assists
Austin Reaves Over 15.5 Points
Game 3 Prediction & Betting Pick
Game 3 feels like a true toss-up on paper, but Minnesota’s defense and home-court advantage give them the edge to bounce back and reclaim control of the series. The Lakers will keep it tight, but expect the Wolves to make key adjustments and respond.
Pick: Timberwolves -3.5
Prediction: Minnesota 108, L.A. Lakers 102
Lean: Over 207.5 – Both teams should see better shooting efficiency and pace after a gritty Game 2.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
