Minnesota Timberwolves (15-4) vs. Memphis Grizzlies (15-4)
Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Memphis Grizzlies 12/8/23 – The Minnesota Timberwolves (15-4) face off against the Memphis Grizzlies (15-4) on Friday night in a clash between two of the NBA’s top teams. Both squads have impressed to start the year and this matchup provides an exciting opportunity to evaluate their championship aspirations. Our premium sports predictions should provide valuable insights for sports bettors.
Minnesota Timberwolves have displayed impressive offensive prowess this season, averaging 112.8 points per game on average and boasting 48.3% field goal percentage and 37% accuracy from three-point range. Unfortunately, their defensive rebounding (35.6 per game) and turnovers (14.2 per game) remain areas of concern and need tightening significantly in upcoming matches to maintain scoring momentum while tightening defense.
Memphis Grizzlies average 105.9 points per game and are an unsettling opponent, scoring an average of 7.7 steals and 6.6 blocks each game on defense. Their field goal percentage (43%) and three-point accuracy (32.6%) fall slightly short of that of Minnesota Timberwolves; therefore they must rely on their defensive strengths while improving shooting efficiency if they want to prevail against them.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Memphis Grizzlies 12/8/23 Game Info
| When: | Friday, December 8, 2023 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | FedExForum |
| TV: | BSSE |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Anthony Edwards (SG) vs. Desmond Bane (SG)
Anthony Edwards continues his ascent towards perennial All-Star status in his third season. The athletic shooting guard averages 26.2 points, 5.9 rebounds and 5 assists while emerging as Minnesota’s crunch time alpha dog. Improved shooting from deep (37%) and attacking aggression have unlocked another level to his growing skill set. He’ll face a strong test against Desmond Bane and the Grizzlies stingy defense.
Desmond Bane has carried over a strong postseason that showcased his diverse, two-way talents. The third year guard averages 23.8 points, 4.4 rebounds and 5.2 assists while providing high-level perimeter shooting at a 46% clip. Bane can score on all three levels and has enough size at 6’5″ 220 lbs to match up reasonably well against the bigger Edwards. His continued evolution as both a shooter and playmaker gives Memphis a devastating perimeter tandem alongside Ja Morant. This matchup against Edwards provides Bane another opportunity to display his blossoming skillset.
Friday’s marquee matchup will feature two of the league’s top young shooting guards. Edwards relentless attacking style pairs well with the marksman shooting of Bane. Whoever gets the better of this battle could steer their team to victory.
NBA Odds/Point Spread:TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this game are currently pending, but given the teams’ equal standing, it’s expected to be closely contested. Bettors should pay close attention to the opening lines to gauge the market’s sentiment.
Minnesota Timberwolves Betting Trends
Minnesota has posted an extremely impressive 13-6 ATS record to begin the year. This shows oddsmakers are still catching up to their newfound defensive strengths built around Rudy Gobert. The Timberwolves are 7-3 ATS over their last 10 games and have covered in three straight. Minnesota has also gone over the total in four of their last five contests. Riding these positive betting trends seems prudent for the Timberwolves.
Memphis Grizzlies Betting Trends
Memphis has trended the opposite way from a betting perspective recently. They’ve posted a 2-3 record ATS over their previous five contests and have gone under the total four times over that stretch. For the full season, the Grizzlies are an even 9-9 ATS while going under in eight of 19 games. Their slower tempo and stingier defense recently suggest lower scoring could hit again.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Memphis Grizzlies 12/8/23 Betting Picks
Considering the statistics and trends, this game appears to be a tightly contested matchup. Both teams have their strengths and weaknesses, but the Timberwolves’ offensive efficiency might give them a slight edge. However, the Grizzlies’ defensive prowess should not be underestimated.
In terms of NBA game picks, this matchup could go either way, but the Timberwolves might have a slight advantage due to their higher scoring average and field goal efficiency. Prop bets on individual player performances, especially Edwards and Bane, could be interesting given their crucial roles in their respective teams.
Free Pick & Prediction: Minnesota Timberwolves 110, Memphis Grizzlies 107