Timberwolves vs Cavaliers
Thu, Jan 8
Final
Timberwolves
Timberwolves
(24 - 13)
131
-
122
Cavaliers
Cavaliers
(21 - 17)
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | T |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Timberwolves | 32 | 31 | 43 | 25 | 131 |
| Cavaliers | 31 | 36 | 22 | 33 | 122 |
Venue: Target Center
GAME LEADERS
PTS
REB
AST
Julius Randle
MIN | #30 | F/C
28
11
8
Donovan Mitchell
CLE | #45 | G
30
7
8
Smart Game Analysis
Minnesota Timberwolves has a 64% chance of winning the game
The Timberwolves' superior defensive metrics and fully healthy starting lineup give them a distinct advantage over a Cavaliers team struggling with depth issues on the road.
Key Analysis
- • Minnesota enters the game with a clean bill of health for their core rotation, while Cleveland is missing key contributors Dean Wade and Max Strus.
- • Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle present a physical mismatch for a Cavaliers defense that is allowing nearly 117 points per game.
- • The Timberwolves possess a top-tier defense anchored by Rudy Gobert, allowing just 114.1 points per contest compared to Cleveland's 116.8.
- • Minnesota is riding significant momentum with a three-game winning streak, including a massive 28-point blowout victory against the Heat.
- • The Timberwolves have been dominant at the Target Center with a 13-6 home record, while Cleveland has been mediocre on the road.
- • Cleveland's path to victory relies heavily on Donovan Mitchell exploding for high efficiency to offset Minnesota's balanced scoring attack.
