Lakers vs. Timberwolves: Preview, Odds, and Key Matchup Insights for December 2

The Los Angeles Lakers and the Minnesota Timberwolves are set to face off in an exciting Western Conference matchup on December 2, 2024, at the Target Center in Minneapolis. The Timberwolves, currently 9-10 overall and 6-4 at home, are favored by 7.5 points according to the latest odds from SportsLine.

The Lakers, with a record of 12-8 overall and 5-5 on the road, come into this game after a narrow 105-104 victory over the Utah Jazz. This win was fueled by strong performances from their superstars, with Anthony Davis scoring 33 points and 11 rebounds, and LeBron James contributing 27 points and 14 assists. However, the Lakers will be without Austin Reaves (pelvis) and D'Angelo Russell (illness), who are listed as game-time decisions.

The Timberwolves, meanwhile, broke a four-game losing streak with a tight 93-92 win against the Los Angeles Clippers. Anthony Edwards led the team with 21 points, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker added a double-double off the bench with 12 points and 10 rebounds. Minnesota’s defense has been a key factor, ranking in the top seven in the league in points allowed per game and 3-pointers allowed per game.

The betting lines for the game include a spread of Timberwolves -7.5, an over/under of 219.5 points, and moneyline odds of Timberwolves -329 and Lakers +259. The SportsLine Projection Model, which has a strong track record of NBA picks, has simulated the game 10,000 times and is leaning towards the over and has generated a point-spread pick that hits well over 50% of the time.

Given the recent performances and team dynamics, the Timberwolves’ strong home defense and the Lakers’ struggles on the road could be decisive factors. Minnesota will look to defend their home court after losing the season opener to the Lakers 110-103 on October 22.