Minnesota Timberwolves Betting Preview

The Minnesota Timberwolves came into this series with all the momentum in the world after running past the Warriors in five games. But they find themselves in a real battle after getting trounced by the Thunder in a 114-88 road defeat on Tuesday in Game 2. 1. Julius Randle led the team with 28 points, eight rebounds and one assists while Anthony Edwards added 18 points with nine rebounds and three assists, but no other player finished in double figures in scoring.

As a team, the Timberwolves shot just 34 percent from the field and 15 of 51 from the 3-point line as they fought hard to take the narrow lead into halftime. But that all changed in the second half, where they managed just 40 points to get blown out in the end. Mike Conley had a rough game as he shot just two of eight for his seven points, while Naz Reid shot just one of 11 for his four points off the bench. But the biggest story of the night was Edwards, who looked hampered after taking a tumble in the first half.

Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Preview

Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder didn’t have too much time to rest before this series after taking down the Nuggets, but they are now in prime position after taking care of business in Game 1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the team with 31 points, nine assists and three steals, Jalen Williams added 19 points with eight rebounds, five assists and five steals while Chet Holmgren chipped in with 15 points, seven rebounds and two blocks.

As a team, the Thunder shot 50 percent from the field and 11 of 21 from the 3-point line as they played well to trail by just four points at halftime despite a terrible start. Before they caught fire with 70 points in the second half to make it look easy in the end. The Thunder were terrific on the defensive end as they held the Timberwolves to just 34 percent shooting from the field, and they did a particularly good job on Edwards, who was held scoreless in the fourth quarter.

Why the Oklahoma City Thunder will win

• The Thunder have won 11 of their last 12 night games at Paycom Center.
• The Timberwolves have lost six of their last seven Western Conference Finals games.
• The Thunder have covered the spread in each of their last six home games following a home win.
• The Timberwolves have failed to cover the spread in five of their last six Western Conference Finals games.

Why the Minnesota Timberwolves will win

• The Timberwolves have won four of their last five games as underdogs against the Thunder following a loss.
• The Thunder have lost five of their last seven playoff games as favorites against Northwest Division opponents following a win.
• The Timberwolves have covered the spread in each of their last seven games against the Thunder following a loss.
• The Thunder have failed to cover the spread in six of their last seven games following a win.

Oklahoma City Thunder Player Facts

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ranks 1st amongst qualified players for points per game (32.7) this season.
• Cason Wallace ranks 3rd amongst qualified players for steals per game (1.8) this season.

Minnesota Timberwolves Player Facts

• Rudy Gobert ranks 1st in the Western Conference amongst qualified players for FG% (66.9%) this season.
• Anthony Edwards ranks 2nd amongst qualified players for three-pointers made Per Game (4.1) this season.

Thunder vs Timberwolves Prediction

The Timberwolves will be so disappointed that they are behind in the series, as they really let a good opportunity slip on Tuesday. The Timberwolves should’ve done better to capitalize on the Thunder’s poor shooting start to the game, but instead, it was the Thunder who were growing in confidence as they trailed by just four points at halftime.

There was real concern for a while in the Timberwolves’ camp as Edwards spent plenty of time in the locker room during the game, but played through a niggle and put together his worst quarter during these playoffs. The Thunder were already brimming with confidence coming into this series, but they will know that a minor slip up in Game 2 could see them surrender home-court advantage. The line seems a bit hefty, but the Thunder showed they can really silence the Timberwolves if they can keep a lid on Edwards, and I think we will see more of the same in this contest.

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Denver Nuggets Betting Preview

The Denver Nuggets needed to respond after falling behind 3-2 in the series, and they did just that with a gritty 119-107 win in Game 6 on Thursday. Nikola Jokic led the team with 29 points with 14 rebounds and eight assists. Jamal Murray added 25 points with eight rebounds and seven assists, Christian Braun scored 23 points with 11 rebounds and five assists, while Julian Strawther chipped in with 15 points off the bench.

As a team, the Nuggets shot 46 percent from the field and 12 of 32 from the 3-point line as they battled hard with the Thunder in a tightly contested game. Until the third quarter where they went on a pivotal 10-0 run fuelled by Strawther to pull away and force a dramatic Game 5. 7. Jamal Murray had to battle through illness in this game, but the Nuggets are about to be further tested with Aaron Gordon seemingly tweaking his hamstring late in Game 6.

Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Preview

Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder are battling for their lives for the first time in these playoffs as they are now facing a series decider after getting routed in Game 6. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the team with 32 points and six assists, Chet Holmgren added 19 points with 11 rebounds while Luguentz Dort chipped in with 10 points.

As a team, the Thunder shot 46 percent from the field and just 11 of 40 from the 3-point line as they poured in 33 points in the second quarter to take the narrow lead into halftime. Only to get outscored by 61-46 in the second half. Gilgeous-Alexander shot 11 of 16 from the field in this game, but had needed more help from Jalen Williams, who finished with just six points on three of 16 shooting from the field.

Why the Oklahoma City Thunder will win

• The Thunder have won each of their last nine games against Northwest Division opponents following a loss.
• The Nuggets have lost seven of their last eight games after winning as underdogs.
• The Nuggets have failed to cover the spread in seven of their last eight road games after winning as underdogs.
• The Thunder have covered the spread in five of their last six home games following a loss.

Why the Denver Nuggets will win

• The Nuggets have won 13 of their last 20 games as underdogs against the Thunder.
• The Thunder have lost four of their last five playoff games when facing elimination.
• The underdogs have covered the spread in eight of the Thunder’s last nine Western Conference Semifinals games.
• The Thunder have failed to cover the spread in seven of their last eight games against Western Conference opponents that held a winning record.

Oklahoma City Thunder Player Facts

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ranks 1st amongst qualified players for points per game (32.7) this season.
• Cason Wallace ranks 3rd amongst qualified players for steals per game (1.8) this season.

Denver Nuggets Player Facts

• Nikola Jokic is the only qualified player in the league averaging at least 25.0 points, 10.0 assists and 5.0 rebounds this season.
• Christian Braun ranks 1st in the league for fast break points (403) this season.

Thunder vs Nuggets Prediction

The Nuggets are coming in with the same squad as it’s safe to assume that both Murray and Gordon will be playing even if they were sick or injured, while the Thunder will be fully healthy once again. The Nuggets were able to put it all together in a much-needed win on Thursday, but now the series shifts back to the Paycom Center, where the Thunder have only dropped one game during these playoffs. B

oth teams have an extra days’ rest, which is particularly helpful for the Nuggets, who are playing their second straight seven-game series, while the Thunder swept past the Grizzlies in the first round. The Nuggets were able to get a real spark off the bench thanks to Strawther in Game 6, but they are going to need everyone to step up on the road in this one. Interestingly, the NBA has yet to officially crown this year’s NBA MVP, so this game could be the decider of who gets the award between Gilgeous-Alexander and Jokic. The Nuggets have been more tested, and I think they can at least battle to the end to keep the final margin within single digits.

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Boston Celtics Betting Preview

New York Knicks Betting Preview

Knicks vs Celtics Prediction

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Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Preview

The Oklahoma City Thunder are now just one win away from moving onto the second round after outlasting the Nuggets in a pivotal 112-105 home win in Game 5 on Tuesday. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the team with 31 points, six rebounds and seven assists, Jalen Williams added 18 points with nine rebounds and four assists, Isaiah Hartenstein scored 15 points while Chet Holmgren chipped in with 14 points.

As a team, the Thunder shot 50 percent from the field and 12 of 29 from the 3-point line as they battled with the Nuggets early on. They looked to be in trouble when they trailed by 12 points in the third quarter, before they clamped down defensively and dominated the fourth quarter by 34-19 to earn the crucial win in front of their home fans.

Denver Nuggets Betting Preview

Meanwhile, the Denver Nuggets are now battling to stave off elimination after getting stopped in their tracks by the Thunder in a tough loss in Game 5. Nikola Jokic led the team with a game-high 44 points with 15 rebounds and five assists on 17 of 25 shooting, Jamal Murray added 28 points while Aaron Gordon chipped in with 13 points, but no other player finished in double figures in scoring.

As a team, the Nuggets shot just 41 percent from the field and 13 of 46 from the 3-point line as they leaned heavily on the hot hand of Jokic to carry them throughout three quarters. Before they got blown out in the fourth quarter to fall just short in the end. Christian Braun had a rough game as he shot just three of 12 for his eight points, Russell Westbrook scored just four points on one of seven shooting while Michael Porter Jr scored just two points on one of seven shooting.

Why the Denver Nuggets will win

• The Nuggets have won each of their last five games as home underdogs against Western Conference opponents following a loss.
• The Thunder have lost 16 of their last 17 playoff road games against Northwest Division opponents following a win.
• The underdogs have covered the spread in each of the Thunder’s last 11 games at Ball Arena.
• The Thunder have failed to cover the spread in eight of their last nine Western Conference Semifinals games as favorites following a win.

Why the Oklahoma City Thunder will win

• The Thunder have won 17 of their last 19 road games.
• The Nuggets have lost three of their last four games.
• The Thunder have covered the spread in eight of their last 10 night games at Ball Arena.

Denver Nuggets Player Facts

• Nikola Jokic is the only qualified player in the league averaging at least 25.0 points, 10.0 assists and 5.0 rebounds this season.
• Christian Braun ranks 1st in the league for fast break points (403) this season.

Oklahoma City Thunder Player Facts

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ranks 1st amongst qualified players for points per game (32.7) this season.
• Cason Wallace ranks 3rd amongst qualified players for steals per game (1.8) this season.

Nuggets vs Thunder Prediction

The Thunder needed to respond after dropping Game 4, and they are now in the driver seat after taking care of business in Game 5 to take a 3-2 series lead. The Nuggets weren’t able to pull off the upset on Tuesday despite a big game from Jokic, but you would expect a better performance from the role players now that the series has shifted back to the Ball Arena.

The Thunder hold the momentum in the series, and I’m not surprised that they’ve opened as favorites on the road, but the Nuggets were good enough to outlast the Clippers in seven games in the first round. Something tells me that we’re about to see them in another series decider. The Thunder are more than capable of finishing the job with a big win here, but the Nuggets have their backs against the wall. I think they get a crucial win here if Jokic can get more support in this one.

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Golden State Warriors Betting Preview

The Golden State Warriors are now battling to stay alive and avoid a fourth straight defeat after getting stopped in their tracks by the Timberwolves in a 117-110 home defeat in Game 4 on Monday. Jonathan Kuminga led the team with 23 points on six of 13 shooting, Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler each scored 14 points, while Buddy Hield chipped in with 13 points.

As a team, the Warriors shot 43 percent from the field and eight of 27 from the 3-point line as they fought hard in the first half to take the narrow lead. Only to get completely blown out in the third quarter by 39-17 to trail by as many as 21 points. Brandin Podziemski had another rough outing as he shot just three of 14 for his 11 points, while Kuminga was the only bench player to score more than eight points.

Minnesota Timberwolves Betting Preview

Meanwhile, the Minnesota Timberwolves are now just one win away from advancing to the second round after running past the Warriors in a crucial 117-110 road win on Monday. Julius Randle led the team with 31 points on 11 of 21 shooting, Anthony Edwards added 30 points with five assists, while Jaden McDaniels chipped in with 10 points and 13 rebounds.

As a team, the Timberwolves shot 49 percent from the field and 16 of 34 from the 3-point line as they kept pace with the Warriors in the first half. Before they broke free with 39 points in the third quarter to take a 21-point lead and cruise to victory. Mike Conley had yet another poor game with just 11 points on two of nine shooting, Donte DiVincenzo scored just nine points off the bench while Naz Reid had just five points with five turnovers.

Why the Minnesota Timberwolves will win

• The Timberwolves have won eight of their last nine games at Target Center.
• The Warriors have lost seven of their last eight games at Target Center following a home loss.
• The Timberwolves have covered the spread in seven of their last eight home games against Western Conference opponents that held a winning record.
• The Warriors have failed to cover the spread in seven of their last eight Western Conference Semifinals road games.

Why the Golden State Warriors will win

• The Warriors have won five of their last six playoff games as road underdogs following a loss.
• The Timberwolves have lost four of their last five playoff games as home favorites against Western Conference opponents following a win.
• The Warriors have covered the spread in each of their last six road games against Northwest Division opponents following a loss.
• The Timberwolves have failed to cover the spread in four of their last five playoff games as home favorites against Western Conference opponents following a win.

Minnesota Timberwolves Player Facts

• Rudy Gobert ranks 1st in the Western Conference amongst qualified players for FG% (66.9%) this season.
• Anthony Edwards ranks 2nd amongst qualified players for three-pointers made Per Game (4.1) this season.

Golden State Warriors Player Facts

• Draymond Green is one of only three qualified players in the league averaging at least 1.0 threes, 1.0 steals and 1.0 blocks this season.
• Jimmy Butler has recorded three career playoff triple-doubles.

Timberwolves vs Warriors Prediction

The Warriors are still shorthanded, with Stephen Curry targeting Game 6 as his earliest return date, while the Timberwolves are coming in with a full squad once again. The Warriors were able to hang tough with the Timberwolves in a tightly contested first half on Monday, but they just didn’t have the firepower to respond after getting rocked in the third quarter.

The absence of Curry was truly felt in the Game 4 loss, as the Warriors might have been able to pull off the upset at home, but they had to rely on role players like Kuminga and Green for offense. This is tough against a defensive minded Timberwolves. The Timberwolves now have a big opportunity to seal the deal at home in Game 5. I think they get the job done, but this line just seems too hefty for this contest, so I will take the Warriors with the points.

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Denver Nuggets Betting Preview

The Denver Nuggets will be hoping to bounce back in this one after falling just short to the Thunder in a tough 92-87 home defeat in Game 4 on Sunday. Nikola Jokic led the team with 27 points, 13 rebounds and four steals, Jamal Murray and Christian Braun scored 17 points each while Aaron Gordon chipped in with 15 points, 16 rebounds and six assists.

As a team, the Nuggets shot a miserly 31 percent from the field and 11 of 45 from the 3-point line as they got off to a nightmare start and managed just eight points in the first quarter. But they worked their way into the contest and looked to be in control in the third quarter, before they went cold again and allowed the Thunder off the hook. Jokic had a rough shooting night as he shot just seven of 22 from the field. Russell Westbrook shot just two of 12 from the field for his six points, while Michael Porter Jr finished with just three points on one of seven shooting.

Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Preview

Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder were feeling the pressure after falling behind in the series, but they were able to square things up with a gritty win in Game 4 on Sunday. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the team in scoring with 25 points, six rebounds and six assists on eight of 19 shooting, Aaron Wiggins and Cason Wallace each scored 11 points while Jalen Williams chipped in with 10 points.

As a team, the Thunder shot just 35 percent from the field and 10 of 41 from the 3-point line as they set the tone with their defense by limiting the Nuggets to just eight points in the first quarter. However, they didn’t really gain control until the fourth quarter, where they finished with a flurry to lead by as many as 15 points. Luguentz Dort had a rough game as he shot just two of 10 for his six points, while Jalen Williams shot just two of 13 for his 10 points.

Why the Oklahoma City Thunder will win

• The Thunder have won 13 of their last 14 games following a road win.
• The Nuggets have lost four of their five previous playoff games at Paycom Center.
• The Thunder have covered the spread in nine of their last 10 night games at Paycom Center.
• The Nuggets have failed to cover the spread in four of their last five night games following a home loss.

Why the Denver Nuggets will win

• The Thunder have lost each of their last four playoff games as favorites against Northwest Division opponents following a win.
• The Nuggets have won each of their last six Game 5s of a playoff series.
• The Thunder have failed to cover the spread in seven of their last eight Western Conference Semifinals games as favorites following a win.
• The Nuggets have covered the spread in each of their last four games at Paycom Center following a loss.

Oklahoma City Thunder Player Facts

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ranks 1st amongst qualified players for points per game (32.7) this season.
• Cason Wallace ranks 3rd amongst qualified players for steals per game (1.8) this season.

Denver Nuggets Player Facts

• Nikola Jokic is the only qualified player in the league averaging at least 25.0 points, 10.0 assists and 5.0 rebounds this season.
• Christian Braun ranks 1st in the league for fast break points (403) this season.

Thunder vs Nuggets Prediction

The Nuggets missed a great opportunity to take a 3-1 series lead after coming up just short in Game 4 on Sunday. However, with the series now tied at 2-2, we are down to the best of three series, with two of those games scheduled at the Paycom Center.

The Thunder struggled their way through one of their worst shooting performances of the season, but they were still good enough to take care of business thanks to their elite defense in the first and fourth quarters. The Thunder are expectedly heavy favorites at home in this crucial game, but the line just seems too hefty for a veteran Nuggets team. Sure, the Nuggets are on the road, but they were good enough to surprise the Thunder in their own building in Game 1 and I think they can keep this one within single digits when it’s all said and done.

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Minnesota Timberwolves Betting Preview

The Minnesota Timberwolves are now in control after taking a 2-1 series lead with a 102-97 road win over the Warriors on Saturday. Anthony Edwards led the team with 36 points on 13 of 28 shooting, Julius Randle racked up a triple-double of 24 points with 10 rebounds and 12 assists while Jaden McDaniels chipped in with 15 points, six rebounds and two blocks.

As a team, the Timberwolves shot 43 percent from the field and 13 of 34 from the 3-point line as they struggled to get going and looked to be in trouble when they trailed by six points in the fourth quarter. Before they went on a pivotal 21-9 run to reclaim the lead and pull away for the narrow win and cover on the road. Mike Conley had another quiet game as he scored just seven points on three of nine shooting, while the bench combined for just 11 points.

Golden State Warriors Betting Preview

Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors are now in a bit of trouble after coming up just short to the Timberwolves in a tough 102-97 home defeat in Game 3 on Saturday. Jimmy Butler III led the team with 33 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists. Jonathan Kuminga added 30 points with six rebounds and three assists off the bench. Buddy Hield chipped in with 14 points and five assists, but no other player finished in double figures in scoring.

As a team, the Warriors shot 43 percent from the field and 10 of 23 from the 3-point line as they played excellent defense to start the game. They held the Timberwolves to just 40 points in the first half to lead for most of the game, until the fourth quarter, where they went cold and opened the door for the Timberwolves to slip away. Draymond Green had a rough outing as he scored just two points with five turnovers before fouling out of the game, while Brandin Podziemski finished with just five points on one of 10 shooting.

Why the Golden State Warriors will win

• The Warriors have won each of their last seven night games following a home loss.
• The Timberwolves have lost four of their last six playoff games as favorites against Western Conference opponents following a win.
• The Warriors have covered the spread in each of their last seven games against Northwest Division opponents following a loss.
• The Timberwolves have failed to cover the spread in each of their last seven Monday games as favorites.

Why the Minnesota Timberwolves will win

• The Timberwolves have won each of their last eight games as road favorites against Pacific Division opponents.
• The Warriors have lost four of their last five home games against Timberwolves teams that held a winning record.
• The Timberwolves have covered the spread in five of their last six games as road favorites against Pacific Division opponents.
• The Warriors have failed to cover the spread in nine of their last 10 Monday games at Chase Center.

Golden State Warriors Player Facts

• Draymond Green is one of only three qualified players in the league averaging at least 1.0 threes, 1.0 steals and 1.0 blocks this season.
• Jimmy Butler has recorded three career playoff triple-doubles.

Minnesota Timberwolves Player Facts

• Rudy Gobert ranks 1st in the Western Conference amongst qualified players for FG% (66.9%) this season.
• Anthony Edwards ranks 2nd amongst qualified players for three-pointers made Per Game (4.1) this season.

Warriors vs Timberwolves Prediction

The Timberwolves expect to have a full squad once again while the Warriors are still missing a key player in Stephen Curry who remains out with a hamstring injury. The Timberwolves were far from convincing in their narrow win in Game 3, but in the end they were good enough to take advantage of a shorthanded Warriors team on the road. It was certainly a close contest from start to finish thanks to big games from Butler III and Kuminga, but they got next to nothing from Podziemski who had a game to forget on Saturday.

The Timberwolves were far from dominant in Game 3, but they were able to pull away behind the strength of their defense, which held the Warriors to just 97 points on Saturday. The pressure is on the Warriors to defend their home court and square up the series, but they are so much easier to defend when Curry is on the sidelines. So, I will stick with the Timberwolves to take care of business once again.

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Cleveland Cavaliers Betting Preview

The Cleveland Cavaliers will have their eyes set on squaring up the series after blowing past the Pacers in a dominant 126-104 road win in Game 3 on Friday. Donovan Mitchell led the team with 43 points, nine rebounds, and five assists. Max Strus added 20 points with seven rebounds and seven assists, Jarrett Allen scored 19 points with 12 rebounds and two blocks, while Evan Mobley chipped in with 18 points, 13 rebounds, and four assists.

As a team, the Cavaliers shot 42 percent from the field and 14 of 47 from the 3-point line as they took control of the contest with a 34-13 second quarter domination. This allowed them to cruise in the second half and rest Darius Garland early after just 25 minutes of action.

Indiana Pacers Betting Preview

Meanwhile, the Indiana Pacers now find themselves in a real battle after getting trampled by the Cavaliers at home in Game 3. Bennedict Mathurin led the team with 23 points on six of 11 shooting, Pascal Siakam added 18 points while Myles Turner chipped in with 15 points.

As a team, the Pacers shot just 43 percent from the field and nine of 30 from the 3-point line as they struggled to match the Cavaliers early on. They just couldn’t recover after scoring just 13 points in the second quarter to trail by 21 points going into halftime. Tyrese Haliburton was the star in Game 2, but he went missing in this contest as he scored just four points on two of eight shooting in 30 minutes of action.

Why the Indiana Pacers will win

• The Pacers have won each of their last 10 Sunday games.
• The Cavaliers have lost each of their last two games as favorites against Central Division opponents following a win.
• The Pacers have covered the spread in each of their last 10 home games following a home loss.
• The Cavaliers have failed to cover the spread in seven of their last eight playoff games against Central Division opponents following a win.

Why the Cleveland Cavaliers will win

• The Cavaliers have won 14 of their last 16 road games against Eastern Conference opponents.
• The Pacers have lost four of their last five home games against Cavaliers teams that held a winning record.
• The road team has covered the spread in each of the last seven games between the Cavaliers and Pacers.
• The Pacers have failed to cover the spread in seven of their last eight home games against Cavaliers teams that held a winning record.

Indiana Pacers Player Facts

• Tyrese Haliburton ranks 1st amongst qualified players for assist:turnover ratio (5.6) this season.
• Myles Turner ranks 1st in the Eastern Conference amongst qualified players for Blocks Per Game (2.0) this season.

Cleveland Cavaliers Player Facts

• Jarrett Allen ranks 1st amongst qualified players for FG% (70.6%) this season.
• De’Andre Hunter is one of only five players to have scored 35+ points off the bench in a game this season.

Pacers vs Cavaliers Prediction

The Cavaliers were able to finally take a stand in the series with a crucial win in Game 3, and they made it look easy as Mitchell was finally able to get plenty of support from the rest of his team. Garland showed plenty of rust in his return to the lineup, but was hardly needed in Game 3, but there is still room for improvement for the Cavaliers, while the Pacers might have peaked in Game 2. I think the Pacers get off to a better start and put up a stiffer challenge, but with the line so short, I think the Cavaliers square things up with a win and cover on the road.

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Minnesota Timberwolves Betting Preview

The Minnesota Timberwolves needed to respond after dropping the series opener against the Warriors and they did just that with a 117-93 win in Game 2 on Thursday. Julius Randle led the team with 24 points, seven rebounds and 11 assists, Anthony Edwards and Nickeil Alexander-Walker each scored 20 points while Jaden McDaniels chipped in with 16 points on seven of 10 shooting.

As a team, the Timberwolves shot 50 percent from the field and 16 of 37 from the 3-point line, but they set up this win with their defense. They were always in control after limiting the Warriors to just 15 points in the first quarter. Mike Conley scored just six points on two of five shooting while Rudy Gobert finished with just five points but they were hardly needed as the Timberwolves cruised at home in a game in which they never trailed.

Golden State Warriors Betting Preview

Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors will be hoping for a better effort after coming out flat against the Timberwolves in a demoralizing defeat in Game 2. Jonathan Kuminga led the team in scoring with 18 points off the bench, Jimmy Butler III added 17 points with seven rebounds and four assists, Buddy Hield and Trayce Jackson-Davis each scored 15 points. Brandin Podziemski chipped in with 11 points, six rebounds, and six assists.

As a team, the Warriors shot 44 percent from the field and nine of 32 from the 3-point line as they fell behind right away, and they could never find their footing without Stephen Curry on the court to spread the floor out. The Warriors still did a decent job of winning the rebound battle, but they shot themselves in the foot with 20 turnovers, which meant they could never get on any sustained run to threaten the Timberwolves.

Why the Golden State Warriors will win

• The Warriors have won each of their last 12 playoff home games against Northwest Division opponents.
• The Timberwolves have lost four of their last five playoff games as favorites against Western Conference opponents following a win.
• The Warriors have covered the spread in each of their last six games against Northwest Division opponents following a loss.
• The Timberwolves have failed to cover the spread in four of their last five games as road favorites following a win.

Why the Minnesota Timberwolves will win

• The Timberwolves have won each of their last six games following a home win.
• The Warriors have lost nine of their last 12 Game 3s of a Western Conference Semifinals series.
• The Timberwolves have covered the spread in each of their last five games as road favorites against Pacific Division opponents.
• The Warriors have failed to cover the spread in six of their last seven games at Chase Center.

Golden State Warriors Player Facts

• Draymond Green is one of only three qualified players in the league averaging at least 1.0 threes, 1.0 steals and 1.0 blocks this season.
• Jimmy Butler has recorded three career playoff triple-doubles.

Minnesota Timberwolves Player Facts

• Rudy Gobert ranks 1st in the Western Conference amongst qualified players for FG% (66.9%) this season.
• Anthony Edwards ranks 2nd amongst qualified players for three-pointers made Per Game (4.1) this season.

Warriors vs Timberwolves Prediction

The Timberwolves are coming in with the same squad once again, while the Warriors are still missing Stephen Curry, who remains without a timetable for his return. With the series shifting back to the Chase Center, you would expect the Warriors’ role players like Podziemski, Moody, and Hield to step up. But what is concerning is that the Timberwolves won Game 2 so easily despite a quiet game from Edwards, who can go big on any night. The Warriors are tempting as the underdogs at home, but they aren’t nearly as dangerous without Curry on the court, so I will stick with the Timberwolves to take the lead in this series.

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Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Preview

The Oklahoma City Thunder needed to respond after dropping the series opener, and they did just that as they smashed the Nuggets by 149-106 in Game 2 on Wednesday. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the team with 34 points and eight assists, Jalen Williams added 17 points with seven assists, Chet Holmgren scored 15 points with 11 rebounds and two blocks while Isaiah Hartenstein and Isaiah Joe scored 14 points each.

As a team, the Thunder shot 56 percent from the field and 16 of 36 from the 3-point line as they stormed out of the gates with 87 points in the first half. They outscored the Nuggets by 37-20 in the third quarter to lead by as many as 49 points at one stage. Gilgeous-Alexander barely missed all night as he shot 11 of 13 from the field, but it was a real team effort as the Thunder had a total of eight players finishing in double figures in scoring.

Denver Nuggets Betting Preview

Meanwhile, the Denver Nuggets must have been brimming with confidence following their win in the series opener, but they are now looking to respond after getting manhandled by the Thunder in an ugly defeat in Game 2. Russell Westbrook led the team in scoring with 19 points and five assists off the bench, Nikola Jokic added 17 points with eight rebounds and six assists, Jamal Murray scored 14 points while Aaron Gordon chipped in with 10 points.

As a team, the Nuggets shot just 37 percent from the field and 15 of 37 from the 3-point line as they got off to a nightmare start and were always fighting an uphill battle after getting outscored by 45-21 in the first quarter. Michael Porter Jr had a rough game as he shot just two of 10 from the field for his eight points, while Christian Braun shot just one of six for his three points.

Why the Denver Nuggets will win

• The Nuggets have won seven of their last eight games as home underdogs against Western Conference opponents.
• The Thunder have lost 15 of their last 16 playoff road games against Northwest Division opponents following a win.
• The underdogs have covered the spread in each of the Thunder’s last nine games at Ball Arena.
• The Thunder have failed to cover the spread in six of their last seven Western Conference Semifinals games as favorites following a win.

Why the Oklahoma City Thunder will win

• The Thunder have won 16 of their last 17 road games.
• The Nuggets have lost Game 3 in 10 of their last 12 playoff series’ when tied 1-1.
• The Thunder have covered the spread in six of their last seven road games against Nuggets teams that held a winning record.
• The Nuggets have failed to cover the spread in four of their last five Western Conference Semifinals home games against Northwest Division opponents.

Denver Nuggets Player Facts

• Nikola Jokic is the only qualified player in the league averaging at least 25.0 points, 10.0 assists and 5.0 rebounds this season.
• Christian Braun ranks 1st in the league for fast break points (403) this season.

Oklahoma City Thunder Player Facts

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ranks 1st amongst qualified players for points per game (32.7) this season.
• Cason Wallace ranks 3rd amongst qualified players for steals per game (1.8) this season.

Nuggets vs Thunder Prediction

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Golden State Warriors Betting Preview

The Golden State Warriors were able to scrape past the Rockets in a seven-game series in the first round. They are now in prime position in the second round after taking down the Timberwolves in a 99-88 road win in Game 1 on Tuesday. Buddy Hield led the team in scoring with 24 points, eight rebounds and three assists, Jimmy Butler III added 20 points with 11 rebounds and eight assists while Draymond Green tallied 18 points with eight rebounds and six assists.

As a team, the Warriors shot just 39 percent from the field and 18 of 42 from the 3-point line. However, this win was all about their defense, as they were always in full control after restricting the Timberwolves to just 11 points in the second quarter. Stephen Curry got off to a flyer as he scored 13 points in 13 minutes before he left the game with an apparent hamstring injury which will keep him sidelined for at least a week.

Minnesota Timberwolves Betting Preview

Meanwhile, the Minnesota Timberwolves were coming into this series with plenty of momentum after blowing past the Lakers in five games in the first round. They are now hoping to bounce back after getting silenced by the Warriors in Game 1 on Tuesday. Anthony Edwards led the team in scoring with 23 points, 14 rebounds and three steals, Naz Reid added 19 points on eight of 14 shooting off the bench while Julius Randle chipped in with 18 points and six assists.

As a team, the Timberwolves shot just 39 percent from the field and a miserly five of 29 from the 3-point line. They got off to a terrible start and trailed in this one by as many as 23 points before they finished with a bit of a flurry to keep the final margin respectable. Donte DiVincenzo finished with just seven points on three of 11 shooting, while Mike Conley finished scoreless on zero of five shooting.

Why the Minnesota Timberwolves will win

• The Timberwolves have won each of their last seven playoff home games against Pacific Division opponents following a loss.
• The Warriors have lost 12 of their last 13 games as road underdogs after winning as underdogs.
• The Warriors have failed to cover the spread in seven of their last eight Western Conference Semifinals games following a win.
• The Timberwolves have covered the spread in each of their last four games following a loss.

Why the Golden State Warriors will win

• The Warriors have won 20 of their last 21 playoff games against Northwest Division opponents.
• The Timberwolves have lost six of their last nine playoff games as home favorites.
• The Warriors have covered the spread in eight of their last nine road games against Northwest Division opponents.
• The Timberwolves have failed to cover the spread in each of their last six games against the Warriors after losing as favorites.

Minnesota Timberwolves Player Facts

• Rudy Gobert ranks 1st in the Western Conference amongst qualified players for FG% (66.9%) this season.
• Anthony Edwards ranks 2nd amongst qualified players for three-pointers made Per Game (4.1) this season.

Golden State Warriors Player Facts

• Draymond Green is one of only three qualified players in the league averaging at least 1.0 threes, 1.0 steals and 1.0 blocks this season.
• Jimmy Butler has recorded three career playoff triple-doubles.

Timberwolves vs Warriors Prediction

The Warriors are going to be shorthanded for this one with Stephen Curry already ruled out with a hamstring injury, while the Timberwolves are coming in with the same squad. The Warriors were able to easily handle the Timberwolves on the road in Game 1 despite losing Curry in the first half, so the pressure is certainly on the Timberwolves to respond and avoid falling into a 2-0 series deficit.

The Timberwolves have been struggling from behind the arc during these playoffs, and it was on full display in Game 1 as the Timberwolves’ starters combined to shoot just one of 13 from the 3-point line, while the Warriors’ starters made 15 of 37. The Timberwolves need to make a stand here, and I like their chances of bouncing back with a win, but even though the Warriors are shorthanded, this line still seems too hefty. I expect the Timberwolves to get the win at home, but I think the Warriors keep this close right till the end.

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Denver Nuggets Betting Preview

The Denver Nuggets were coming into this round fresh off a seven-game series win over the Clippers and are now sitting pretty in the second round after sneaking past the Thunder in a thrilling 121-119 comeback win in Game 1 on Monday. Nikola Jokic led the team with 42 points, 22 rebounds and six assists on 15 of 29 shooting, Aaron Gordon added 22 points with 14 rebounds, Jamal Murray scored 21 points while Russell Westbrook tallied 18 points off the bench.

As a team, the Nuggets shot 44 percent from the field and 10 of 32 from the 3-point line as they struggled to get going and trailed by as many as 14 points in the third quarter. Before they clicked into gear and poured in 36 points in the fourth quarter to snatch the game away in the final seconds thanks to Gordon, who drained the game-winner with just 2.8 seconds left on the clock.

Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Preview

Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder must have been brimming with confidence after they swept the Grizzlies in the first round, but they suddenly have their backs against the wall after getting stunned by the Nuggets in Game 1 on Monday. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the team with 33 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists on 12 of 26 shooting. Alex Caruso provided a real spark off the bench with 20 points, six assists, and five steals. Jalen Williams scored 16 points with seven rebounds and four assists, while Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein chipped in with 12 points each.

As a team, the Thunder shot 42 percent from the field and 15 of 43 from the 3-point line as they poured in 60 points in the first half to lead by double digits for most of the contest. However, despite their best efforts on defense, they couldn’t hold off the Nuggets down the stretch. Holmgren played a solid game, but he missed two crucial free throws with 9.1 seconds left on the clock, leaving the door open for the Nuggets to steal the game at the end.

Why the Oklahoma City Thunder will win

• The Thunder have won each of their last seven games against Northwest Division opponents following a loss.
• The Nuggets have lost each of their last four road games after winning as underdogs.
• The Thunder have covered the spread in eight of their last nine night games at Paycom Center.
• The Nuggets have failed to cover the spread in each of their last four road games after winning as underdogs.

Why the Denver Nuggets will win

• The underdogs have won four of the last five games between the Nuggets and Thunder.
• The Thunder have lost each of their last three Western Conference Semifinals games as favorites.
• The Thunder have failed to cover the spread in each of their last seven games against the Nuggets after losing as favorites.
• The underdogs have covered the spread in seven of the last eight games between the Nuggets and Thunder.

Oklahoma City Thunder Player Facts

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ranks 1st amongst qualified players for points per game (32.7) this season.
• Cason Wallace ranks 3rd amongst qualified players for steals per game (1.8) this season.

Denver Nuggets Player Facts

• Nikola Jokic is the only qualified player in the league averaging at least 25.0 points, 10.0 assists and 5.0 rebounds this season.
• Christian Braun ranks 1st in the league for fast break points (403) this season.

Thunder vs Nuggets Prediction

The Nuggets were double-digit underdogs at the start of Game 1, but were able to pull off the big upset thanks to a monster game from Jokic and another game-winner from Gordon, who has now made two in these playoffs. The Thunder will be so disappointed with the result on Monday, as they played excellent defense almost the entire game, but they got outrebounded by 63-43. Holmgren just couldn’t make the final two free throws of the game with just 2.8 seconds remaining.

The pressure is now all on the Thunder to avoid falling into a 2-0 series deficit going on the road. The Nuggets are 4-0-1 ATS in their last five games, while the Thunder are 0-3 ATS in their last three games. The Thunder are desperate to square up the series and I think they make the adjustments to grab the crucial victory, but I like the Nuggets to hang tough and make this interesting at the end.

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Golden State Warriors Betting Preview

The Golden State Warriors are growing in confidence after outlasting the Rockets in a thrilling seven-game series, but they won’t have much time to recover after beating the Rockets by 103-89 on Sunday. Buddy Hield was misfiring all series, but he came up big in the series decider as he drained nine 3-pointers to finish with 33 points. Stephen Curry added 22 points with 10 rebounds and seven assists, while Jimmy Butler III chipped in with 20 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists.

As a team, the Warriors shot just 47 percent from the field and 18 of 43 from the 3-point line, but they played excellent defense from the start, limiting the Rockets to just 39 points in the first half to control the contest early on. Before they caught fire in the fourth quarter to lead by as many as 20 points at one stage.

Minnesota Timberwolves Betting Preview

Meanwhile, the Minnesota Timberwolves will be fully rested coming into this series after taking care of the Lakers in a comfortable five-game series in the first round. Anthony Edwards has been leading the way during these playoffs with averages of 26.8 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game. Julius Randle is averaging 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. Jaden McDaniels is averaging 17.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game. Naz Reid is averaging 11.6 points off the bench. As a team, the Timberwolves scored 107.4 points per game while shooting 44.1 percent from the field and 32.3 percent from the 3-point line.

Why the Minnesota Timberwolves will win

• The Warriors have lost each of their last 12 games as road underdogs after winning as underdogs.
• The Timberwolves have won each of their last seven games at Target Center.
• The Warriors have failed to cover the spread in each of their last seven Western Conference Semifinals games following a win.
• The Timberwolves have covered the spread in each of their last six home games against Western Conference opponents that held a winning record.

Why the Golden State Warriors will win

• The Warriors have won 19 of their last 20 playoff games against Northwest Division opponents.
• The Timberwolves have lost three of their last four playoff games as favorites against Western Conference opponents following a win.
• The Timberwolves have failed to cover the spread in each of their last nine home games after winning as underdogs.
• The Warriors have covered the spread in seven of their last eight road games against Northwest Division opponents.

Minnesota Timberwolves Player Facts

• Rudy Gobert ranks 1st in the Western Conference amongst qualified players for FG% (66.9%) this season.
• Anthony Edwards ranks 2nd amongst qualified players for three-pointers made Per Game (4.1) this season.

Golden State Warriors Player Facts

• Stephen Curry ranks 1st amongst qualified players for FT% (93.3%) this season.
• Draymond Green is one of only three qualified players in the league averaging at least 1.0 threes, 1.0 steals and 1.0 blocks this season.

Timberwolves vs Warriors Prediction

The Warriors could be slightly shorthanded for this one as Gary Payton II is listed as questionable, while the Timberwolves have ruled out Rob Dillingham once again. The Warriors have already been tested in these playoffs, but they came up clutch when the stakes were highest, so they will be quietly confident of their chances against the Timberwolves.

They beat them in three out of four meetings during the regular season. The Warriors have already shown that they have the lineups to be able to draw the Timberwolves’ Rudy Gobert away from the basket, so we could see extra minutes for Naz Reid in this matchup. I get why the Timberwolves are favorites at home, but the line just seems a bit too hefty for this matchup. I’m not saying the Warriors pull off the upset, but I like their chances to keep this close till the final buzzer.

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Denver Nuggets Betting Preview

The Denver Nuggets are coming into the second round with plenty of confidence after outlasting the Clippers in a thrilling seven-game series win in the first round. Nikola Jokic continued his stellar form into the playoffs with averages of 24.0 points, 11.6 rebounds and 10.1 assists per game. Jamal Murray woke up from a shooting slump to average 22.9 points and 5.9 assists per game, Aaron Gordon averaged 18.9 points and 5.7 rebounds per game, including a game winner, while Russell Westbrook averaged 13.8 points and 3.8 rebounds per game. As a team, the Nuggets scored 107.7 points per game while shooting 48.2 percent from the field and 38.9 percent from the 3-point line.

Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Preview

Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder must be brimming with confidence after making light work of the Grizzlies with a clean sweep in the first round. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continued his hot shooting as he averaged 27.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game. Jalen Williams averaged 23.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game. Chet Holmgren averaged 18.5 points and 7.8 rebounds per game, but no other player is averaging more than 10 points per game during these playoffs. As a team, the Thunder have scored 120.0 points per game while shooting 45.7 percent from the field and 31.3 percent from the 3-point line.

Why the Oklahoma City Thunder will win

• The Thunder have won 23 of their last 24 games at Paycom Center when playing with a rest advantage.
• The Nuggets have lost five of their last six road games following a win.
• The Thunder have covered the spread in each of their last eight night games at Paycom Center.
• The Nuggets have failed to cover the spread in seven of their last eight night games following a home win.

Why the Denver Nuggets will win

• The Nuggets have won each of their last four games as road underdogs when playing with a rest disadvantage.
• The Thunder have lost four of their last five Western Conference Semifinals games as favorites following a win.
• The Thunder have failed to cover the spread in seven of their last eight night games against Northwest Division opponents that held a winning record.
• The Nuggets have covered the spread in eight of their last nine games as underdogs against the Thunder following a win.

Oklahoma City Thunder Player Facts

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ranks 1st amongst qualified players for points per game (32.7) this season.
• Jalen Williams ranks 7th amongst qualified players for steals per game (1.6) this season.

Denver Nuggets Player Facts

• Nikola Jokic is the only qualified player in the league averaging at least 25.0 points, 10.0 assists and 5.0 rebounds this season.
• Christian Braun ranks 1st in the league for fast break points (403) this season.

Thunder vs Nuggets Prediction

The Nuggets are coming into this series with a full squad, while the Thunder are still playing without Ousmane Dieng. The Nuggets were able to turn it on late in the first round to sneak past the Clippers in a series decider, but they are going to have to take things to another level against this red-hot Thunder team. They have been resting since their last game on April 1. 26.

These teams met four times in the regular season, with the series tied at 2-2, but the momentum is definitely with the Thunder, who were 35-6 at home during the regular season. The Nuggets only had one day off to travel after beating the Clippers in Game 7 on Saturday. So even if they get off to a quick start, I like the Thunder to wear them down and force enough turnovers to win comfortably at home. Give me the Thunder to draw first blood with a win and cover in Game 1.

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Here’s a Cavaliers vs Pacers Prediction. This article will include a Cavaliers vs Pacers Pick.

Indiana Pacers Betting Preview

The Indiana Pacers are coming into this series fresh off a 4-1 series win over the Bucks in the first round of the playoffs. Pascal Siakam has been leading them in the scoring with averages of 19.8 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game. Tyrese Haliburton averaged 17.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 11.6 assists per game. Myles Turner averaged 16.8 points and 2.2 blocks per game, while Andrew Nembhard is averaging 15.0 points and 4.8 assists per game.

As a team, the Pacers scored 117.8 points per game while shooting 49.9 percent from the field and 39.3 percent from the 3-point line. But the most encouraging aspect from their effort in the first round is that they have a total of seven players averaging at least 10 points per game.

Cleveland Cavaliers Betting Preview

Meanwhile, the Cleveland Cavaliers will be fully rested as they are coming into this one as they were able to sweep the Heat with ease in the first round of the playoffs. Darius Garland missed a couple of games but is leading the team in scoring with an average of 24.0 points and 7.0 assists per game. Donovan Mitchell has averaged 23.8 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game. Ty Jerome and Evan Mobley are both averaging 16.3 points per game, while Jarrett Allen has averaged 14.3 points and 10.3 rebounds per game so far in these playoffs.

As a team, the Cavaliers are scoring 126.0 points per game while shooting 51.8 percent from the field and 44.0 percent from the 3-point line. On the defensive end, the Cavaliers allowed just 106.0 points per game, and the average margin of victory in the sweep was 30.5 points per game.

Why the Cleveland Cavaliers will win

• The Cavaliers have won each of their last 10 games when playing with a rest advantage.
• The Pacers have lost each of their last nine playoff road games against Central Division opponents following a win.
• The Pacers have failed to cover the spread in nine of their last 10 road games following a win.
• The Cavaliers have covered the spread in nine of their last 10 games when playing with a rest advantage.

Why the Indiana Pacers will win

• The Pacers have won each of their last nine Sunday games.
• The Cavaliers have lost four of their last five Eastern Conference Semifinals games.
• The Cavaliers have failed to cover the spread in each of their last seven games at Rocket Arena following a road win.
• The Pacers have covered the spread in each of their last nine Sunday games.

Cleveland Cavaliers Player Facts

• Jarrett Allen ranks 1st amongst qualified players for FG% (70.6%) this season.
• Ty Jerome ranks 4th amongst qualified players for 3P% (43.9%) this season.

Indiana Pacers Player Facts

• Tyrese Haliburton ranks 1st amongst qualified players for assist:turnover ratio (5.6) this season.
• Myles Turner ranks 1st in the Eastern Conference amongst qualified players for Blocks Per Game (2.0) this season.

Cavaliers vs Pacers Prediction

The Pacers are slightly shorthanded once again with Isaiah Jackson still ruled out, while the Cavaliers are keeping an eye on Darius Garland, who sat out the last two games and is questionable with a toe injury. These teams met four times in the regular season, with the Pacers winning the series by 3-1.

The Cavaliers could be missing Garland once again, but the Cavaliers are still clear favorites at home, where they finished with a 34-7 record this season. You can make an argument for either side, but the Cavaliers have looked near unbeatable during these playoffs. I think they draw first blood with a relatively comfortable win and cover at home behind big games from Mitchell and Mobley.

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Los Angeles Clippers Betting Preview

The Los Angeles Clippers needed to defend home court to force a series decider, and they did just that with a 111-105 win over the Nuggets in Game 6 on Thursday. James Harden led the team with 28 points and eight assists, Kawhi Leonard added 27 points with 10 rebounds and five assists, while Norman Powell chipped in with 24 points on nine of 15 shooting.

As a team, the Clippers shot 50 percent from the field and 12 of 39 from the 3-point line as they traded shots with the Nuggets in a tightly contested first half. Before they went on a pivotal 12-0 run early in the third quarter to take a 15-point lead, which was just enough to hold off a late charge from the Nuggets. Nicolas Batum was a real spark plug for the Clippers off the bench, and he had his fingers all over this game to finish with six points, six assists, two steals and three blocks in 34 minutes of action.

Denver Nuggets Betting Preview

Meanwhile, the Denver Nuggets had all the momentum in the series, but it’s now down to one game at home after falling short to the Clippers on Thursday. Nikola Jokic continued his terrific form with 25 points, seven rebounds, eight assists and three steals, Jamal Murray added 21 points with eight rebounds and eight assists while Aaron Gordon chipped in with 19 points on nine of 16 shooting.

As a team, the Nuggets shot 52 percent from the field and 11 of 27 from the 3-point line, which are solid numbers that had them in the contest, until the third quarter where they allowed the Clippers to start to pull away. Russell Westbrook produced 14 points with 10 rebounds and six assists off the bench, but they needed more from Michael Porter Jr, who finished with just five points on two of five shooting.

Why the Denver Nuggets will win

• The Clippers have lost each of their last eight games at Ball Arena following a home win.
• The Nuggets have won 11 of their last 12 playoff home games against Pacific Division opponents.
• The Clippers have failed to cover the spread in seven of their last eight games at Ball Arena following a home win.
• The Nuggets have covered the spread in 15 of their last 20 games at Ball Arena against Clippers teams that held a winning record.

Why the Los Angeles Clippers will win

• The Clippers have won 12 of their last 13 night games.
• The Nuggets have lost four of their last six playoff games as home favorites.
• The Nuggets have failed to cover the spread in each of their last eight games as favorites following a road loss.
• The Clippers have covered the spread in each of their last seven games as underdogs.

Denver Nuggets Player Facts

• Nikola Jokic is the only qualified player in the league averaging at least 25.0 points, 10.0 assists and 5.0 rebounds this season.
• Christian Braun ranks 1st in the league for fast break points (403) this season.

Los Angeles Clippers Player Facts

• Ivica Zubac ranks T2nd in the league for second chance points (299) this season.
• Kris Dunn ranks 3rd amongst qualified players for steals per 36 minutes (2.6) this season.

Nuggets vs Clippers Prediction

Jokic has been rock solid for the Nuggets in this series with averages of 25.3 points, 11.8 rebounds and 10.5 assists per game, but this game really comes down to how much help he gets home his teammates. The Clippers were able to get a combined 79 points from Harden, Leonard, and Powell on Thursday, so the Nuggets will be in trouble unless their role players like Braun and Porter Jr step up.

The Nuggets have home-court advantage, which is why they are slight favorites in this spot, but the Clippers have already beaten the Nuggets twice in three games at the Ball Arena in this series. I think they seal the deal with a minor upset on the road in this one. You can make an argument for either side, but I think the Nuggets’ decision to fire their head coach finally catches up to them when the stakes are highest. Give me the Clippers to book their ticket to the second round with a gritty win on the road.

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Here’s a Warriors vs Rockets Prediction. This article will include a Warriors vs Rockets Pick.

Golden State Warriors Betting Preview

Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors will be looking to bounce back and finish off the Rockets after getting trounced in a 131-116 road defeat in Game 5 on Wednesday. Moses Moody led the team with 25 points on nine of 18 shooting off the bench, Kevin Knox added 14 points while Stephen Curry chipped in with just 13 points and seven assists.

As a team, the Warriors shot just 41 percent from the field and 15 of 44 from the 3-point line as they struggled to match the urgency of the Rockets from the start. They were never really in the contest after allowing 76 points in the first half. Jimmy Butler III shot just two of 10 for his eight points, Draymond Green scored just seven points, while Buddy Hield chipped in with just four points.

Warriors vs Rockets Prediction

The Warriors are coming in with a full squad once again, while the Rockets are still without Jae’Sean Tate and Jock Landale. The Warriors didn’t look good at all in Wednesday’s blowout loss, but there was always a chance that they could take their foot off the gas with a 3-1 series lead.

The Rockets were able to fully capitalize on the Warriors’ mistakes, and they kept a lid on Curry the entire game. However, they lost both of their road games in this series, so they certainly have their backs against the wall. I would love to see this series go to a Game 7, but with what is at stake. It’s hard to go past the veteran Warriors to seal the deal with a win and cover at home behind a big game from Curry.

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Denver Nuggets Betting Preview

The Denver Nuggets are now just one win away from advancing to the second round after running past the Clippers in a 131-115 home win in Game 5 on Tuesday. Jamal Murray led the team with 43 points and seven assists, Aaron Gordon added 23 points on seven of 11 shooting, Russell Westbrook scored 21 points off the bench while Nikola Jokic tallied a triple-double of 13 points with 10 rebounds and 12 assists.

As a team, the Nuggets shot a healthy 55 percent from the field and 17 of 33 from the 3-point line as they opened the game with a 17-6 run to take the lead into halftime. Before they opened the third quarter with a 15-6 run to pull away and win comfortably at home.

Los Angeles Clippers Betting Preview

Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Clippers are now in serious trouble after dropping the last two games to find themselves on the brink of elimination. In Thursday’s blowout loss, Ivica Zubac led the team in scoring with 27 points, Kawhi Leonard added 20 points with nine rebounds and 11 assists, Bogdan Bogdanovic scored 18 points while Kris Dunn chipped in with 15 points.

As a team, the Clippers shot 52 percent from the field and 11 of 29 from the 3-point line as they did a decent job of weathering the early storm and staying within striking distance. Until they got blown away in the third quarter to trail by as many as 22 points at one stage. James Harden just couldn’t get going all night as he finished with just 11 points with five assists on three of nine shooting while committing four turnovers.

Why the Los Angeles Clippers will win

• The Clippers have won 13 of their last 14 night games at Intuit Dome.
• The Nuggets have lost seven of their last eight Western Conference First Round road games against Pacific Division opponents following a win.
• The Clippers have covered the spread in eight of their last nine home games following a road loss.
• The Nuggets have failed to cover the spread in six of their last seven night games following a home win.

Why the Denver Nuggets will win

• The Nuggets have won each of their last seven games as underdogs against the Clippers following a win.
• The Clippers have lost four of their last five Western Conference First Round games as favorites against Northwest Division opponents.
• The Nuggets have covered the spread in each of their last eight games as underdogs against the Clippers following a win.
• The Clippers have failed to cover the spread in seven of their last eight playoff games as favorites against Northwest Division opponents following a loss.

Los Angeles Clippers Player Facts

• Ivica Zubac ranks T2nd in the league for second chance points (299) this season.
• Kris Dunn ranks 3rd amongst qualified players for steals per 36 minutes (2.6) this season.

Denver Nuggets Player Facts

• Nikola Jokic is the only qualified player in the league averaging at least 25.0 points, 10.0 assists and 5.0 rebounds this season.
• Christian Braun ranks 1st in the league for fast break points (403) this season.

Clippers vs Nuggets Prediction

The Clippers had their chance to take a 3-1 series lead not too long ago, but now they find themselves on the brink of another early playoff exit after getting run off the court by the Nuggets in Game 5. The Clippers did a great job of weathering an early barrage from the Nuggets and keeping the margin to just eight points at halftime. But just a little run from the Nuggets had the Clippers trailing by double digits the entire second half.

The Nuggets were really in a flow on offense from the start of Game 5, and they didn’t even need a big scoring game from Jokic as the role players stepped up, but that was at home. The Clippers can atone for their mistakes on Tuesday with a win here, but they are going to need Leonard and Harden to both step up at home. The line is a bit hefty, but I think the Clippers force a series decider with a win and cover at home in this spot.

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Minnesota Timberwolves Betting Preview

The Minnesota Timberwolves will be eager to book their ticket to the second round after outlasting the Lakers in a thrilling 116-113 home win in Game 4 on Sunday. Anthony Edwards led the team with 43 points, nine rebounds and six assists, Julius Randle added 25 points with seven rebounds and three assists while Jaden McDaniels chipped in with 16 points, 11 rebounds and three assists.

As a team, the Timberwolves shot 42 percent from the field and 14 of 36 from the 3-point line as they wasted an early lead and looked to be in trouble when they trailed by 12 points in the third quarter. Before they clicked into gear on the defensive end and dominated the fourth quarter by 32-19 to run down the Lakers and take a commanding 3-1 series lead. Rudy Gobert had a quiet game of just five points on one of six shooting, while Mike Conley finished with just two points on one of five shooting.

Los Angeles Lakers Betting Preview

Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers will be hoping for a better result after coming up painfully short to the Timberwolves in a demoralising loss in Game 4 on Sunday. Luka Doncic tried his best as he led the team with 38 points on 13 of 28 shooting, LeBron James added 27 points with 12 rebounds, eight assists, three steals and three blocks, Rui Hachimura tallied 23 points while Austin Reaves chipped in with 17 points.

As a team, the Lakers shot 45 percent from the field and 19 of 47 from the 3-point line as they opened the third quarter on a 14-0 run to seemingly take control of the contest. However, they went ice-cold and managed just 19 points in the fourth quarter to allow the Timberwolves off the hook in a disappointing finish. The Lakers got plenty of scoring from their starters but just six points from their bench, all of which were from Dorian Finney-Smith, who played 41 minutes.

Why the Los Angeles Lakers will win

• The favorites have won 17 of the last 18 games between the Timberwolves and Lakers.
• The Timberwolves have lost each of their last five Game 5s of a playoff series.
• The favorites have covered the spread in nine of the last 10 games between the Timberwolves and Lakers.
• The Timberwolves have failed to cover the spread in three of their last four road games following a win.

Why the Minnesota Timberwolves will win

• The Lakers have lost four of their last five playoff games as home favorites.
• The Timberwolves have won eight of their last nine games against Western Conference opponents.
• The Timberwolves have covered the spread in nine of their last 10 Western Conference First Round games.
• The Lakers have failed to cover the spread in five of their last six games against Northwest Division opponents.

Los Angeles Lakers Player Facts

• LeBron James ranks 1st amongst qualified Forwards for assists per game (8.2) this season.
• Luka Doncic is one of only four players to have recorded a 40+ point triple-double this season.

Minnesota Timberwolves Player Facts

• Rudy Gobert ranks 1st in the Western Conference amongst qualified players for FG% (66.9%) this season.
• Anthony Edwards ranks 2nd amongst qualified players for three-pointers made Per Game (4.1) this season.

Lakers vs Timberwolves Prediction

The Timberwolves must be brimming with confidence after they took a commanding 3-1 series lead on Sunday, as they were able to call on their elite defense in the fourth quarter when it mattered most. The Lakers now find themselves on the brink of elimination after failing to hang onto a 12-point third quarter lead in Game 4. However, there is plenty of room for improvement, as they got just six points from their bench while Reaves was battling foul trouble all night. We should be in for another close contest, but in a must-win game, I have the Lakers getting the job done at home.

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Los Angeles Clippers Betting Preview

The Los Angeles Clippers will be aiming to reclaim the series lead after suffering a heartbreaking 101-99 defeat to the Nuggets in Game 4 on Saturday. Kawhi Leonard led the team with 24 points, Norman Powell added 22 points, Ivica Zubac added 19 points with 12 rebounds and six assists while James Harden chipped in with 15 points and 11 assists.

As a team, the Clippers shot 44 percent from the field and 10 of 30 from the 3-point line as they caught fire in the fourth quarter to overcome a 22-point deficit. Only to get stunned at the buzzer, where the Nuggets’ Aaron Gordon tipped in a missed shot to snatch the game away in a shocking finish. Kris Dunn had a night to forget as he shot just one of nine from the field to finish with just three points, while no bench players scored more than seven points.

Denver Nuggets Betting Preview

Meanwhile, the Denver Nuggets must be feeling so lucky that they aren’t behind in the series after they took a crucial win in Game 4. Nikola Jokic continued his terrific form with 36 points, 21 rebounds and eight assists, Michael Porter Jr and Christian Braun each scored 17 points while Aaron Gordon chipped in with 14 points, six rebounds and five assists.

As a team, the Nuggets shot 46 percent from the field and 10 of 29 from the 3-point line as they looked to be headed for overtime after they squandered a 22-point lead. Before Gordon saved the day with a clutch tip in to steal the game for the Nuggets at the buzzer.

Why the Denver Nuggets will win

• The Nuggets have won each of their last six games as underdogs against the Clippers following a win.
• The Clippers have lost 11 of their last 12 games at Ball Arena against Nuggets teams that held a winning record.
• The Nuggets have covered the spread in each of their last seven games as underdogs against the Clippers following a win.
• The Clippers have failed to cover the spread in each of their last five games as road favorites against Western Conference opponents.

Why the Los Angeles Clippers will win

• The Clippers have won each of their last 11 night games.
• The Nuggets have lost each of their last four games after winning as underdogs.
• The Clippers have covered the spread in each of their last six games against Northwest Division opponents after losing as favorites.
• The Nuggets have failed to cover the spread in each of their last six home games against Pacific Division opponents.

Denver Nuggets Player Facts

• Nikola Jokic is the only qualified player in the league averaging at least 25.0 points, 10.0 assists and 5.0 rebounds this season.
• Christian Braun ranks 1st in the league for fast break points (403) this season.

Los Angeles Clippers Player Facts

• Ivica Zubac ranks T2nd in the league for second chance points (299) this season.
• Kris Dunn ranks 3rd amongst qualified players for steals per 36 minutes (2.6) this season.

Nuggets vs Clippers Prediction

The Clippers are coming in with the same lineup, while the Nuggets are still keeping an eye on Russell Westbrook, who is listed as questionable for this one. The Clippers looked as though they were well on their way to a crucial win as they had all the momentum after they erased that 22-point deficit, but the Nuggets stole the game on a clutch play from Gordon.

The Nuggets open as slight underdogs at home, but you would have the Clippers as favorites too if you saw how they dominated most of the fourth quarter on Sunday. This should be another close one, but I think the Clippers are the better team and I like them to earn a crucial win here behind their superior defense.

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