Oklahoma City Thunder (27-13) vs. Timberwolves (29-11)
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Minnesota Timberwolves January 20, 2024 – The NBA action is heating up as the Utah Jazz go head-to-head against the Houston Rockets in an exciting matchup on Saturday. As the game approaches, basketball enthusiasts and bettors alike are eagerly awaiting the clash between these two teams. In this piece, we will break down the game info, key player analysis, team statistics, and betting odds to provide you with valuable insights and our NBA free picks today.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Minnesota Timberwolves January 20, 2024 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, January 20, 2024 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Target Center |
| TV: | BSN |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (PG) vs. Anthony Edwards (SG)
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has put together an All-Star caliber season for the Thunder, averaging 31 points, 5.7 rebounds and 6.3 assists while shooting excellent percentages from the field (50%), three (39%) and the foul line (84%). He has shoulder a massive offensive load, with the 4th highest usage rate (36%) in the NBA, but remains incredibly efficient. His ability to create space and hit tough, contested shots is elite. However, SGA struggles at times on defense when matched up against top opposing guards.
Anthony Edwards has broken out in his NBA season to the tune of 26 points per game on 45/37/79 shooting splits. The former #1 overall pick has improved his efficiency in all areas of scoring while also setting up teammates at a career-best rate (4.9 assists). Edwards uses his strength, quickness and leaping ability to overpower defenders and get to his spots for scoring opportunities. He’ll be a handful for the Thunder guards with his relentless attacking style. He lockdown defender still has room for improvement on defense, where he has posted a defensive rating of 112 this year.
This marquee matchup between two of the brightest young stars in the NBA could determine the outcome on Saturday night. Both are lethal bucket-getters with limitless confidence in their own shot-making ability. But Gilgeous-Alexander’s craftiness and self-creation skills give him the slight edge over Edwards. SGA should be able to put up big numbers even against Minnesota’s stout defense. Meanwhile, the Wolves shooting guard may be in line for a scoring explosion if he can exploit some of OKC’s perimeter issues. This battle warrants attention.
The Thunder’s Impressive Offense
The Thunder enter this game with an impressive offensive performance, ranking 5th in the NBA in points per game with an average of 121.9, and securing the 7th position in field goal percentage at 50.5%. They exhibit excellent ball control by committing the 4th-fewest turnovers per game, with a mere 11.6 turnovers on average. Additionally, their offensive strategy is characterized by a well-rounded approach, highlighted by the contributions of Gilgeous-Alexander.
Timberwolves’ Defensive Prowess
Conversely, the Timberwolves have displayed an improvement in their performance after a sluggish start, triumphing in seven of their last eight games. Their notable strength lies in their defensive capabilities, as they hold the 8th position in opponents’ points per game with an average of 110.7 and rank 4th in defensive rating with a rating of 108.9.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
Betting odds for this contest are still to be determined, reflecting its close nature. Bettors should pay careful attention as new odds become available and compare each team’s strengths and weaknesses before placing bets.
Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Trends
Thunder are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
OKC Thunder are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Thunder are 10-8 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Thunder’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 12 of Thunder’ 21 last games at home.
Minnesota Timberwolves Betting Trends
Timberwolves are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
Minnesota Timberwolves are 4-1 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Timberwolves are 10-11 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Timberwolves’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 6 of Timberwolves’ 18 last games at home.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Minnesota Timberwolves Betting Picks
The Timberwolves appear to have a slight edge heading into this contest given their stellar recent play and home-court advantage. Back Minnesota to cover the small 2.5-point spread in a matchup that should crack the lofty 224 over/under. Russell Westbrook props are also appealing if he suits up for OKC, while Edwards over 26.5 points is worth a look for Minnesota.
Take the Timberwolves to defend home court behind big offensive nights from Edwards and Towns. The model at Americas legal betting sites predicts a 120-115 Minnesota victory against the spread. Oklahoma City will keep things close with Gilgeous-Alexander willing them late, but the Timberwolves depth and defense should be the ultimate difference.
Score Prediction: Timberwolves 120, Thunder 115
