Minnesota Timberwolves vs Oklahoma City Thunder – NBA Preview – Dec 31, 2024

The Minnesota Timberwolves travel to Oklahoma City to face the Thunder at the Paycom Center on New Year’s Eve. The Thunder, holding the top spot in the Western Conference with a 26-5 record, are on an impressive 11-game winning streak. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves, eighth in the conference at 17-14, have found some momentum with a three-game winning streak.
These teams meet for the first time this season, with the Thunder aiming to extend their dominance at home where they hold a 12-2 record. The Timberwolves will try to carry over their December success, where they’ve gone 8-4 to climb back into playoff contention.
Timberwolves Preview – Searching for Consistency
The Timberwolves have shown improvement in December, led by Donte DiVincenzo’s resurgence. After struggling earlier in the season, DiVincenzo is averaging 11.5 points on 44.3% shooting this month, including 40.8% from three. Rudy Gobert remains a dominant force inside, pulling down 15 rebounds and scoring 17 points in their last outing.
Offensively, Minnesota averages 109.3 points per game, ranking 23rd in the league. They rely on Anthony Edwards, who leads the team in scoring, but his efficiency has been inconsistent. The Timberwolves will need to overcome their 8-8 road record and slow down Oklahoma City’s high-powered offense to pull off an upset.
Defensively, Minnesota has struggled on the boards, ranking 22nd in total rebounds. They face a tough challenge against a Thunder team that moves the ball well and has several scoring options.
Thunder Preview – Aiming to Stay Hot
Oklahoma City’s 11-game winning streak has been fueled by All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is averaging 32.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 5.5 assists during the streak. Rookie Ajay Mitchell has been a surprise contributor, stepping up with increased playing time in the absence of Alex Caruso.
The Thunder lead the league in defense, holding opponents to 103.1 points per game. Their defensive prowess is backed by solid performances from Isaiah Hartenstein and Jalen Williams, who contribute on both ends of the floor. Oklahoma City also excels at three-point shooting, hitting 37.2% of their attempts.
Playing at home, where they’ve dominated this season, the Thunder will look to extend their winning streak to 12 games. Their ability to control the tempo and get contributions from their deep roster gives them a strong edge against Minnesota.
Betting Prediction
The Thunder are favored by 6.5 points, with a total set at 216.5. Oklahoma City’s defense and home-court advantage make them the clear favorite, but Minnesota’s recent form suggests they can keep the game competitive. Expect the Thunder to win but for the Timberwolves to cover the spread in a lower-scoring game.
A predicted score of 108-103 in favor of Oklahoma City supports taking the under on the total and the Timberwolves with the points.
Pick: Timberwolves +6.5, Under 216.5