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- What: NBA Regular Season Game
- When: January 15, 2025
- Who: Golden State Warriors vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
- Time: 9:30 p.m. EST
- Where: Target Center (Minneapolis, MN)
The Golden State Warriors are in a tailspin, and it’s not looking good as they prepare to face the Minnesota Timberwolves.
After a hot start to the season, the Warriors have dropped to a disappointing 19-20 record, sitting below .500 for the first time this season.
Their recent performance has been a rollercoaster. They have lost four of their last five games, including a gut-wrenching defeat to the Toronto Raptors. The Raptors had only one win in their previous 17 games.
Stephen Curry’s 26 points weren’t enough to save the day, and the Warriors are now left scrambling for answers.
Before we examine our picks, be sure to check out the best NBA Basketball Betting Sites.
Game Preview (Warriors vs. Timberwolves)
| Spread |  |  |  |
| Minnesota Timberwolves -5.5 Points | -115 | -115 | -110 |
| Golden State Warriors +5.5 Points | -105 | -105 | -110 |
On the other hand, the Timberwolves are on the rise, currently boasting a 21-18 record and coming off a solid 120-106 victory against the Washington Wizards.
Anthony Edwards is lighting it up, averaging 25.8 points per game, and just dropped 41 points in that last game. With Minnesota winning four of their last five, they’re gaining momentum at the right time.
So why am I siding with Minnesota to cover the -5.5 spread?
For starters, the Warriors have been struggling on offense. They’re not just losing; they’re failing to score efficiently.
Their recent games have shown a lack of discipline and execution, which head coach Steve Kerr has pointed out.
The Warriors are not winning in the margins, and against a Timberwolves team that has one of the top defenses in the league, that’s a recipe for disaster.
24 HOURS. pic.twitter.com/3k5zTEQYkE
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) January 15, 2025
The Timberwolves have been able to control the pace of games, and with their defensive prowess, they can stifle the Warriors’ offensive efforts.
Even if Gary Payton II returns from injury, it’s unlikely that one player can turn the tide against a well-rounded Minnesota squad.
The Warriors’ struggles are compounded by the fact that they’ve lost 17 of their last 24 games since their hot 12-3 start. This isn’t just a slump; it’s a full-blown crisis.
With Minnesota’s strong defense and the Warriors’ offensive woes, I’m confident that the Timberwolves will cover the -5.5 spread. Buckle up, because this game is shaping up to be a one-sided affair.
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Total Points
Now, let’s talk numbers. When we look at the averages of both teams’ offenses and defenses, we see a projected total of 218 points.
| Total Points | | | |
| Over 216 | -115 | -110 | -110 |
| Under 216 | -105 | -110 | -110 |
However, based on the average pace of both teams, which sits at 101.4 possessions per side, we can expect a final projected total of around 221 points.
This suggests that the game could be more high-scoring than anticipated, especially with the over/under line set at 216.
Given the Warriors’ offensive struggles and the Timberwolves’ ability to score, I’m also leaning towards the over.
The Timberwolves are not just a better team right now; they’re a team that’s finding its groove while the Warriors are floundering.
30 with the left 👀@ampm || Assist of the Game pic.twitter.com/OifVIjnIqd
— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) January 14, 2025
This total is too low for how well the Timberwolves offense has been playing of late. This one is a mistake by oddsmakers setting a number that low.
Over 216 points is the best bet in this one and you will want to bet it before it’s gone!
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