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Boston Celtics vs Minnesota Timberwolves Betting Preview
The Boston Celtics visit the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Saturday NBA Cup action. Both teams sit at 10-8, but Boston enters off a statement win over Detroit while Minnesota looks to halt a three-game slide. Bettors must weigh the Celtics’ defense and perimeter shooting against the Timberwolves’ home-court edge and star scoring.
Line Movement and Odds
- Timberwolves Spread: -7.0 (-109)
- Celtics Spread: +7.0 (-109)
- Timberwolves MoneyLine: -270
- Celtics MoneyLine: +224
- Total: 227.5 (Over -110, Under -110)
Minnesota opened as favorites at home despite recent losses. See full NBA odds for market movement.
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Matchup Breakdown
Boston Celtics Outlook
Boston snapped Detroit’s 13-game win streak with a 117-114 victory, led by Jaylen Brown’s 33 points and Derrick White’s 27. The Celtics rank fourth in threes made per game (15.3) and second in points allowed (110.2). Their defense forced nine steals and seven blocks against Detroit, showing resilience despite missing Neemias Queta. Brown’s back spasms remain a concern, but Boston’s perimeter shooting and defensive efficiency give them a strong edge.
Minnesota Timberwolves Outlook
Minnesota dropped three straight on the road, including a competitive 113-105 loss to Oklahoma City. Anthony Edwards leads with 28.0 points per game, while Julius Randle adds 23.4. The Timberwolves rank 10th in scoring (118.8 PPG), eighth in FG% (48.2), and third in three-point percentage (37.8). Terrence Shannon Jr. returned from injury with 18 points on perfect shooting, adding depth. At home, Minnesota is 10-7, relying on Edwards’ efficiency and Randle’s interior scoring to bounce back.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
Boston’s perimeter shooting vs Minnesota’s defensive rotations. If the Celtics hit volume threes and force turnovers, they can offset the Wolves’ home edge. Minnesota must dominate the paint and free-throw line while Edwards controls tempo. Pace and shot quality will decide this contest.
Injuries / Availability
Boston lists Jaylen Brown (back spasms) as questionable. For full player status, check the Celtics injury report.
Minnesota reports Terrence Shannon Jr. returning from a foot injury, while Karl-Anthony Towns was traded earlier in the season. See the Timberwolves injury report for latest updates.
Environment
Target Center provides Minnesota a situational edge, but Boston’s defense and slower pace (95.3 possessions per game) could suppress scoring. Both teams are adjusting after holiday schedules, making energy and execution critical.
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Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Timberwolves 115, Celtics 111
- Celtics +7.0 (-109) → Best Bet. Boston’s defense and three-point shooting suggest they can keep this close.
- Under 227.5 (-110) → Total. Our model projects 226 points, leaning under given Boston’s pace and defensive metrics.
Expect a competitive game with Boston’s defense keeping them inside the number, while Minnesota’s stars secure a narrow home win. The spread favors Celtics, with the total trending under.
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