Los Angeles Lakers vs
Minnesota TimberwolvesPredictions & Preview

Timberwolves Take 2-1 Lead Over Lakers, Betting Odds Favor Minnesota - Game 4 Preview underway

The Minnesota Timberwolves secured a 116-104 win over the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 3 of their first-round series, giving them a 2-1 lead as they head back to Target Center for Game 4 on Sunday at 3:30 pm ET. Betting odds favor the Timberwolves, with an opening line of -3.5 and the current line at Minnesota -3. Stay tuned for more analysis and predictions from our team of NBA Cappers.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Lakers +130 | Timberwolves -150
• Spread: Lakers +3 (-110) | Timberwolves -3 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 209 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Minnesota will win straight-up is 60%.

Los Angeles vs Minnesota Stats

Los Angeles Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers finished the regular season with a 52-30 record and are currently trailing 2-1 in the first round. The team's offense was led by Luka Doncic and LeBron James, averaging 113.4 points per game. In terms of defense, the Lakers allowed an average of 112.2 points per game, ranking 11th in the league. Despite a historic performance by LeBron James in Game 3, the Lakers struggled on the road with a 18-22-2 ATS record. Overall, the Lakers hold a power ranking of 18, with rankings of 19 in offense and 10 in defense. Los Angeles averaged 112.94 points per game offensively and allowed 111.9 points defensively. The team also performed well in field goal percentages (47.77%), free throw percentages (78.84%), and three-point percentages (36.48%). However, they struggled in rebounding, with an average of 42.36 rebounds per game. Defensively, the Lakers allowed 46.32% field goals, 77.55% free throws, and 35.66% three-pointers. In terms of assists and turnovers, the Lakers averaged 25.82 offensive assists, 13.12 turnovers, 27.14 defensive assists, and 12.92 turnovers per game.

Minnesota Timberwolves Analysis

The Minnesota Timberwolves have gained the home-court advantage and carry significant momentum into Game 4 after a convincing win in Game 3. Their ability to force turnovers and execute in crunch time has been key, as their defense, particularly on the perimeter, has improved. Led by Anthony Edwards, the Timberwolves have a balanced scoring attack and strong defense, ranking sixth in points allowed per game during the regular season. In their Game 3 victory, Edwards and Jaden McDaniels played pivotal roles, with the team closing the game on a 13-1 run. The Timberwolves' offensive and defensive stats reflect their strong performance, ranked highly in key categories. Their solid shooting percentages and low turnover rates have contributed to their success. Overall, the Timberwolves are a formidable team with a strong chance of continuing their winning streak in Game 4.

Lakers Look to Avoid 3-1 Deficit Against Struggling Timberwolves

In this pivotal matchup, I am inclined to support the Lakers in order to prevent a 3-1 deficit. Despite suffering losses in Game 3, the Lakers had multiple opportunities to secure a victory, with the score tied at 103 in the final five minutes of play. Although Luka Doncic was not operating at full capacity during the previous game, I anticipate an improved performance from him with the team facing a potential 3-1 shortfall. In critical situations like this, LeBron and Luka have demonstrated their ability to deliver. Furthermore, Minnesota's subpar 28-36 against the spread record as favorites this season reinforces the rationale for favoring the underdog Lakers to cover the spread.

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