Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Los Angeles Lakers 2/27/25 – The Minnesota Timberwolves and the Los Angeles Lakers face off on the Western Conference on Thursday night at Crypto.com Arena. Both teams are competing for a spot in the playoffs, so the game will be really important for the postseason. The Lakers are 35-21, and strong at home. They have a 9-2 record over their last 11 games. The Timberwolves are 32-27, and have been inconsistent recently, but they appear to be on a high, winning five out of their last seven meetings with the Lakers. The game will start at 10:30 PM ET and will be broadcasted on NBA TV.
| When: | Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 10:30 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA |
| TV: | NBA TV |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
24 HOURS. pic.twitter.com/iyzniGesGH
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) February 27, 2025
Oddsmakers have the Lakers favored by 5.5 points, and given their stellar 8-1 home record in their last nine, it’s understandable. However, Minnesota’s strong ATS record (10-5 in their last 15 against L.A.) suggests they might be able to cover. The total is set at 225.5, and considering the Wolves have hit the OVER in seven of their last 10 games, there’s reason to lean toward the OVER, despite the Lakers trending UNDER in four of their last five.
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Timberwolves | +5.5 (-105) | Over 225.5 (-110) | +180 |  |
| Lakers | -5.5 (-115) | Under 225.5 (-110) | -215 | |
| ||||
Naz Reid (C) vs. Anthony Edwards (SG)
Naz Reid has proven to be a reliable asset for the Timberwolves this season, appearing in 58 games. Reid is currently averaging 14.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game as he has had to shoulder an increase in responsibility due to injuries at the Minnesota frontcourt. As a big man who can shoot efficiently from deep, Reid is difficult to matchup against for traditional centers. At the same time, his minimal defensive presence and meager shot blocking ability (0.9 BPG) can be problematic for the Lakers’ versatile scorers in the paint.
Anthony Edwards, the Lakers’ offensive cornerstone, has been phenomenal this season, averaging 27.5 points, 6 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game all in the midst of high usage. Edwards excels at scoring and can do so at the rim, mid-range, and behind the three-point line. While his turnover numbers (3.5 per game) are an issue, his immense influence in games makes him very dangerous. If the Minnesota perimeter players aren’t careful, Edwards could easily up his scoring average.
Timberwolves’ Offensive Firepower and Defensive Challenges
Despite their recent struggles, Minnesota remains a dangerous team. Their offense puts up 112.1 points per game, powered by a 37.5% three-point shooting clip. Their rebounding numbers (44.3 RPG) and assist rate (25.3 APG) indicate they move the ball well and crash the boards effectively. However, turnovers (14.2 per game) and defensive lapses have cost them several winnable games. In their last five, they’ve alternated wins and losses, highlighted by a strong 131-128 win over Oklahoma City but also a 121-115 loss to Houston. If they want to steal this one, they’ll need to cut down on mental mistakes and tighten up defensively.
Lakers’ Hot Streak Dominance at Home
The Lakers are on a hot streak, winning nine of their last eleven games, while feasting at home. They score an average of 113 points per game, and their shooting accuracy is a commendable 48.2%. Their assist (26.6 APG) and defensive rebounding (33.1 DRPG) averages show their willingness to support their teammates. During the last five games, they’ve defeated Dallas, Denver, and Portland, showcasing their proficiency against high-level teams. Still, the loss to Charlotte, 100 – 97, was puzzling. As long as they manage the pace of the game, keep building their wall on the defense, they will be in the driver’s seat.
Trends
Minnesota Timberwolves Betting Trends
Minnesota is 6-3 ATS in their last nine games.
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Minnesota’s last 10 games.
Minnesota is 2-4 SU in their last six games.
Minnesota is 10-5 ATS in their last 15 games against the Lakers.
Minnesota is 5-2 SU in their last seven games against the Lakers.
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
The Lakers are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of their last 5 games.
The Lakers are 9-2 SU in their last 11 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 11 of their last 15 games against Minnesota.
The Lakers are 8-1 SU in their last 9 home games.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Los Angeles Lakers Betting Prediction
In this game, there is a compelling matchup between the in-form Lakers and a Timberwolves side that is searching for some momentum. Although Minnesota has had some success against them lately, L.A’s home record is incredibly tough to overlook. Forwards and centers, have always dominated the league and while Edwards is the best player on the floor, he should be the difference-maker, especially as the Lakers defensive schemes are geared towards not allowing Timberwolves’ perimeter shooters look too comfortable.
Looking from a betting perspective, the Lakers spread of -5.5 is very appealing considering they are 8-1 SU at home this season and are 8-3 ATS during their last 11. Nonetheless, the Timberwolves will do everything possible towards protecting their strong ATS record against the Lakers. Regarding the total, Under 225.5 (-110) is certainly stronger when compared to the spread as Minnesota continues to trend OVERs. But the Lakers have been solid in hitting the UNDER most times.
Sign up today to make your NBA betting prediction!
Score Prediction: Los Angeles Lakers 115, Minnesota Timberwolves 108..
