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Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Los Angeles Lakers: Preview, Predictions and Picks for October 22, 2024

Published on:
Oct 22, 2024 7:10 AM
The Los Angeles Lakers are set to kick off their 2024-2025 NBA season by hosting the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Crypto.com Arena on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at 10:00 PM. Both teams enter the contest with a clean slate, looking to make a strong impression in their season opener. This Western Conference matchup promises to be an exciting clash between two hungry teams vying for early season momentum.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Los Angeles Lakers

Los Angeles Lakers recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
10/18/24 @ Golden State Warriors L 132-74
10/17/24 @ Phoenix Suns W 128-122 OT
10/15/24 vs Golden State Warriors L 111-97
10/10/24 @ Milwaukee Bucks W 107-102
10/6/24 vs Phoenix Suns L 118-114

Minnesota Timberwolves recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
10/17/24 vs Denver Nuggets L 132-126
10/16/24 @ Chicago Bulls L 125-123
10/13/24 @ New York Knicks L 115-110
10/11/24 vs Philadelphia 76ers W 121-111
10/4/24 @ Los Angeles Lakers W 124-107

Timberwolves vs Lakers predictions

As the NBA season kicks off with an exciting clash between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Los Angeles Lakers, player performances are anticipated to set the tone for both teams. For the Timberwolves, Anthony Edwards is expected to shine as the team's leading scorer, demonstrating his remarkable ability to score from multiple areas on the floor. His athleticism and scoring acumen should help him notch around 22 points. Alongside him, Rudy Gobert will be critical in the paint, both as a rebounder and a defender, possibly accumulating over 13 rebounds and 2 blocks, anchoring the defensive efforts for Minnesota. Julius Randle's versatility should also see him contributing significantly, particularly in rebounding and scoring, as his robust play style fits well against the Lakers’ frontcourt.

On the opposite end, the Los Angeles Lakers are looking to their stars to counter Minnesota's charge. LeBron James, always a critical figure, should play a massive role in both scoring and playmaking, likely amassing upwards of 21 points and facilitating the offense with roughly 6 assists. Anthony Davis is projected to be a dominant force inside, potentially grabbing over 13 rebounds and scoring above 20 points, demonstrating why he's considered one of the top big men in the league. Additionally, Austin Reaves is expected to make a considerable impact, contributing on both ends of the floor, which might include scoring in the mid-teens and providing valuable assists, enhancing the Lakers' offensive dynamics.

Considering the projections and the matchups, this opening game is set to be a tightly contested affair. However, the home advantage and the Lakers' potent mix of youth and experience could tip the scales in their favor. The Lakers possess a slightly deeper bench strength, which could prove crucial in the later stages of the game. Thus, while the Timberwolves will put up a strong fight, the Los Angeles Lakers might just edge past with a narrow victory in what promises to be a riveting season opener at the Crypto.com Arena.

Los Angeles Lakers injuries

  • Christian Koloko (C): Out
  • Jarred Vanderbilt (PF): Out
  • Christian Wood (F): Out

Timberwolves vs Lakers game info

Venue crypto.com Arena
Location Los Angeles, CA
Tip-off Tue 10:00 PM
TV TNT

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