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Minnesota (20-10) at Denver (21-8)
- When: Dec 25 2025, 10:30 PM
- Where: Ball Arena, Denver, CO, USA
- TV: ABC
Minnesota vs Denver Preview & Prediction
Spread: Denver -2.0
Moneyline: Denver (-130)
Total: 239.0
Minnesota Timberwolves Betting Breakdown
Minnesota heads into Christmas night playing some of its best basketball of the season. The Timberwolves have caught fire since late November, winning 10 of their last 12 games and five of their last six overall. That stretch includes statement wins over Oklahoma City and New York, showing this team can handle elite competition.
Anthony Edwards remains the engine. He is averaging 28.7 points per game and continues to attack downhill with confidence. Edwards missed the first meeting with Denver this season and was solid in the second, finishing with 26 points and eight rebounds. He has openly embraced the spotlight of a holiday showcase and should be aggressive from the opening tip.
Julius Randle has quietly provided stability as a secondary scorer, averaging 22.6 points per game, while Jaden McDaniels adds consistent two way production. Minnesota has also been far more comfortable playing in Denver recently, winning five of its last six road games there dating back to last season’s playoffs.
Defensively, Minnesota has tightened rotations and improved transition defense during this surge, helping them stay competitive in high scoring environments. That will matter in a game with a total pushing 240.
Timberwolves player prop pick: Anthony Edwards over 31.5 points
Denver Nuggets Betting Breakdown
Denver returns home after a frustrating one point loss in Dallas that came with a bigger cost. Cameron Johnson exited with a knee injury and will miss time, leaving the Nuggets without three opening night starters. Aaron Gordon and Christian Braun remain sidelined, putting pressure on a shortened rotation.
Nikola Jokic continues to do Nikola Jokic things. He leads the league in rebounds and assists while ranking among the top scorers. His ability to control tempo will be critical with Denver missing defensive depth and secondary scoring. Jamal Murray has stepped up as well, averaging a career high 25.1 points per game and should see heavy usage again.
The Nuggets have already beaten Minnesota twice this season, both times on the road. However, injuries have reshaped this roster, and Denver may need to win with offense rather than defense. Expect Jokic to play extended minutes and operate heavily through the high post to exploit Minnesota’s aggressive perimeter defense.
Nuggets player prop pick: Nikola Jokic over 10.5 assists
NBA Final Score & Expert Prediction
Denver’s star power gives them the edge, but Minnesota’s recent form and success in Denver suggest a competitive game. Expect scoring throughout and a tight finish.
Final Score: Nuggets 122, Timberwolves 118
Lean: Denver -2.0
Total: Over 239.0
- NBA Basketball Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
