The battle for the top spot in the Western Conference continues tonight, February 12th, at Crypto.com arena, where the Clippers host the Timberwolves, the current leader in the standing. A win for the home team will mean dethroning the Timberwolves, but that's easier said than done.
The team from Minnesota defeated the Clippers in their three previous encounters, including once this season. Even though the Timberwolves have had some notable recent successes, bookie apps favor the home team with a 4.5-point spread for this matchup, available for betting with a Caesars sportsbook promo code. This highly-anticipated clash can influence the playoff dynamic. Let's examine the available odds.
Defense Give the Timberwolves an Edge
The Timberwolves had a free weekend after outscoring the Bucks on Thursday 129-105 on the road and now will attempt to beat another title contender on the road. Minnesota is entering the Crypto.com arena as the best defensive team in the league, allowing 107.1 points per game. Crucial aspects of Minnesota's defensive play are blocking and rebounding, with center Rudy Gobert playing a significant role in both aspects of the Timberwolves defense.
It's fair to say that the offense is not underperforming, scoring 113.4 points a night with 49% shooting for the floor and 54.8% for two points, while they are 39.4% effective from beyond the arc, ranking 2nd in the NBA. Against the Bucks, Anthony Edwards led the team with 26 points and nine assists.
Having depth is necessary for sustained success in the NBA. Despite Minnesota's injuries, the team was formidable, with Mike Conely and Karl-Anthony Towns contributing towards the big win in Wisconsin, resulting in a 36-16 overall record.
The Clippers Dominate Rebounding
The Clippers defeated the Pistons on Sunday, but that's nothing to brag about, especially after losing to the Pelicans at home on Wednesday. This LA team is in the mix for the first seed in the West with a 35-16 record and possesses the stats to prove its competitiveness. The Clippers score 118.4 points per game, with an overall field goal percentage of 49.5% and 39.7% from the three-point line.
From a scoring perspective, this team ranks 10th in the league. Its most productive trio on the hardwood floor comprises Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and James Harden. Leonard averages 24.2 points a game with 6.2 rebounds per contest.
On the defensive side, the Clippers allow 112.3 points per game and can restrict opponents from finding favorable scoring opportunities. One key of their defensive approach is rebounding, with big man Ivica Zubac leading the team with 9.4 rebounds per contest. The Clippers have depth, and players can make individual plays in crucial moments and elevate the team, making them a contender in the Western Conference.
Betting Prediction and Odds
Both teams are dominant this season, with versatile players and deep benches, making for an exacting matchup. The Timberwolves defense shortens opponents' shooting opportunities, but the Clippers possess the firepower to test Minnesota's defense. Minnesota is no slouch on offense, too.
The best betting sites offer -170 odds on a moneyline bet for the Clippers and +142 betting line for the Timberwolves to win. The point spread offers -120 odds on Minnesota to cover as a +4.5-point underdog and +100 odds on the favorite LA to cover. The total is 222.5 points with -108 odds for the Over and -112 for the Under bet. The Timberwolves also seem like a more cohesive team, unlike the egotistical Clippers.
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