NBA 2025-2026: Minnesota Timberwolves vs Oklahoma City Thunder Prediction

Minnesota Timberwolves

Home Team
49.0%
110.7 pts
VS

Oklahoma City Thunder

Away Team
51.0%
111.4 pts

Key Prediction Insights

The Oklahoma City Thunder are predicted to narrowly edge out the Minnesota Timberwolves with a 51.0% probability of winning, and a projected score of 111.4 to 110.7. The Timberwolves' expected starting lineup includes Anthony Edwards, Donte DiVincenzo, Jaden McDaniels, Julius Randle, and Rudy Gobert. The Thunder will likely start Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Cason Wallace, Luguentz Dort, Chet Holmgren, and Isaiah Hartenstein.

Game Analysis

In recent performances, the Minnesota Timberwolves have shown resilience, securing wins against the Dallas Mavericks and one of two games against the Golden State Warriors. Their defense was particularly strong against the Warriors, holding them to just 83 points in their second matchup. Anthony Edwards continues to be a scoring dynamo with an average of 29.42 points per game, complemented by Julius Randle's 22.39 points. Rudy Gobert's defensive rating of 109.3 is a standout, anchoring the team's defensive efforts. The Oklahoma City Thunder, on the other hand, have experienced a mix of results. They secured a victory against the New Orleans Pelicans but suffered close losses to the Toronto Raptors and Indiana Pacers. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been a consistent offensive force, averaging 32.04 points per game with an impressive offensive rating of 137.0. Chet Holmgren also continues to impress with both offensive and defensive contributions. The Thunder's defensive efforts are bolstered by Isaiah Hartenstein, whose defensive rating stands at 102.8, providing a solid backbone for the team.

Final Prediction

The Oklahoma City Thunder's edge in this matchup lies primarily in their slightly superior scoring capability and defensive resilience, led by the stellar play of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. A key factor to watch during the game will be the battle between the high-scoring backcourt of the Thunder and the Timberwolves' defensive strategies, particularly how they manage Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's influence on the game.