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Minnesota Timberwolves vs Dallas Mavericks Betting Preview
The Minnesota Timberwolves host the Dallas Mavericks at Target Center in NBA Cup play. Minnesota enters at 8-5, looking to rebound from a loss to Denver, while Dallas sits at 4-10 after an overtime win over Portland. Bettors will weigh the Timberwolves’ offensive firepower against the Mavericks’ short-rest challenge and defensive perimeter discipline.
Line Movement and Odds
- Timberwolves Spread: -14.0 (-112)
- Mavericks Spread: +14.0 (-111)
- Total: 227.5
Minnesota opened as a heavy home favorite, reflecting their stronger record and Dallas’ road struggles. See full NBA odds for market movement.
Matchup Breakdown
Minnesota Timberwolves Outlook
Anthony Edwards leads the team with 27.3 points per game, shooting 47.6% overall and 41.1% from deep. Julius Randle adds 25.5 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 6.2 assists, while Jaden McDaniels contributes 17.7 points. Minnesota ranks 9th in scoring (120.7 ppg) and 4th in FG% (50.0%). Their three-point shooting is also elite at 39.1%. Ball movement remains key, as Naz Reid emphasized after their loss to Denver.
Dallas Mavericks Outlook
Cooper Flagg scored 21 with 8 rebounds in the win over Portland, while P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford added 21 and 20 points respectively. Dallas ranks 3rd in free throw attempts per game (28.9) and defends the perimeter well, allowing just 11.5 threes per game (2nd best). Rookie Flagg averages 15.2 points and 6.6 rebounds, showing promise. Anthony Davis remains sidelined with a calf injury, limiting their frontcourt depth.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
The Timberwolves must rely on Edwards and Randle to drive scoring while improving ball movement. The Mavericks need Flagg and Washington to sustain offensive production and use their perimeter defense to slow Minnesota’s shooting. Rebounding and tempo control will decide whether Dallas can keep this close.
Injuries / Availability
Minnesota has no major new injuries reported. For full player status, check the Timberwolves injury report.
Dallas lists Anthony Davis (calf) as out for 7–10 days. See the Mavericks injury page for latest updates.
Environment
The game tips at Target Center, where Minnesota is 3-3 at home. Dallas is 1-2 on the road and playing on short rest after an overtime win. Expect Minnesota’s pace and efficiency to thrive, while Dallas leans on perimeter defense to stay competitive.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Timberwolves 121, Mavericks 108
- Best Bet: Timberwolves -14.0
Minnesota’s offensive efficiency and depth point to a comfortable cover at home. - Total: Over 227.5
Our model projects 229 points, leaning over given both teams’ defensive lapses.
Minnesota’s firepower should secure the win, but Dallas’ perimeter defense could keep the margin respectable. Expect a high-scoring contest that trends slightly over the total.
Handicappers and Service Plays
For sharper betting insights on this NBA Cup matchup, explore our Best Handicappers, follow performance data on the Leaderboard, and check the Buy Picks section for expert-backed selections.


