Minnesota Timberwolves vs New York Knicks Picks and Predictions – December 23, 2025
The Minnesota Timberwolves head to Madison Square Garden to take on the New York Knicks in a Saturday evening Eastern vs Western Conference battle. Tip is scheduled for 7:30 PM ET, with both teams trying to maintain their top-six playoff positioning in their respective conferences.
Minnesota enters this matchup with the NBA’s best defensive rating, while New York has leaned on physicality and rebounding to win ugly games. This should be a grind — but one with a few key matchup advantages to exploit.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs New York Knicks Odds
Here’s where the market sits now. Always verify movement through the latest NBA odds.
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota Timberwolves | -125 | -2 (-110) | O 212.5 (-110) |
| New York Knicks | +105 | +2 (-110) | U 212.5 (-110) |
Minnesota Timberwolves Betting Form
The Wolves continue to lead the league in team defense, and it shows in their ability to win slow-paced, possession-heavy games. Rudy Gobert has returned to elite form as a paint anchor, and Anthony Edwards is carrying the offense late in games with clutch isolation scoring.
They’re 11-4 ATS in their last 15 games and have been especially sharp on the road defensively. The concern here is offensive droughts — especially if Edwards is off or double-teamed. The Minnesota Timberwolves injury report should be checked for any late scratches in the frontcourt.
New York Knicks Betting Form
The New York Knicks keep grinding out games with top-tier rebounding, low turnovers, and tough wing defense. Jalen Brunson has been the clear engine — averaging nearly 25 PPG in December — and Julius Randle continues to provide muscle on the boards and in the post.
But scoring consistency remains an issue, and they’ve failed to break 108 points in four of their last six games. Against Minnesota’s halfcourt defense, they’ll need a strong night from their bench or big-time shot-making from Brunson.
Watch the New York Knicks injury report for Mitchell Robinson’s status, which could impact rim protection and rebounding.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs New York Knicks Matchup Breakdown
This matchup comes down to tempo, rebounding, and who can hit enough perimeter shots. Neither team plays fast — both rank bottom-five in pace — so expect limited possessions and heavy halfcourt usage.
Key matchup angles:
- Knicks lead the NBA in offensive rebound rate
- Wolves lead the league in defensive FG% allowed
- Both teams rank bottom-10 in 3-point attempt rate
- Under has hit in 7 of last 10 meetings between these teams
Looking to take a lower-risk approach? Learn how to hedge a bet or dig into alternate total points for tighter betting edges in low-total games like this.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs New York Knicks Predictions and Best Bets
With two slow-paced, physical, defense-first teams, this total makes sense — and the side does too. Minnesota’s offense can still go cold, but their consistency on the defensive end gives them a small edge. It’s a coin-flip game, but the Wolves are slightly more complete.
The safer bet is probably the Under. With each team playing inside-out, controlling possessions, and limiting transition, this sets up for a 104–101 type finish.
Best Bet: Under 212.5 (-110).
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