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Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves: Preview, Predictions and Picks for January 18, 2025

Updated on:
Jan 18, 2025 8:37 PM
On Saturday, January 18, 2025, the Minnesota Timberwolves will host the Cleveland Cavaliers at the Target Center in a highly anticipated cross-conference matchup. The Cavaliers, sitting atop the Eastern Conference with a 34-6 record, will look to continue their dominance on the road, where they've compiled a 14-4 record. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves, who are 22-19 overall and 10-9 at home, will aim to pull off an upset in front of their home crowd.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs Minnesota Timberwolves

Current Odds

CLE
MIN
Over
233.5
-113
Under
235.5
-105
CLE
-1.5
-110
MIN
+2.5
-105
CLE
ML
-125
MIN
ML
+130

Minnesota Timberwolves recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
1/15/25 vs Golden State Warriors L 116-115
1/13/25 @ Washington Wizards W 120-106
1/11/25 vs Memphis Grizzlies L 127-125
1/9/25 @ Orlando Magic W 104-89
1/7/25 @ New Orleans Pelicans W 104-97

Cleveland Cavaliers recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
1/16/25 @ Oklahoma City Thunder L 134-114
1/14/25 @ Indiana Pacers W 127-117
1/12/25 vs Indiana Pacers L 108-93
1/9/25 vs Toronto Raptors W 132-126
1/8/25 vs Oklahoma City Thunder W 129-122

Minnesota Timberwolves injuries

  • Leonard Miller (F): Out
  • Donte DiVincenzo (SG): Out
  • Terrence Shannon Jr. (G): Out

Cleveland Cavaliers injuries

  • Isaac Okoro (SF): Day-To-Day
  • Evan Mobley (PF): Day-To-Day
  • Emoni Bates (F): Out
  • Luke Travers (G): Out

Cavaliers vs Timberwolves game info

Type Info
Venue Target Center
Location Minneapolis, MN
Tip-off Sat 9:00 PM

Cavaliers vs Timberwolves predictions

The Cleveland Cavaliers are gearing up to face off against the Minnesota Timberwolves with a formidable squad that's hard to overlook. Donovan Mitchell is the heartbeat of the Cavs offense, and he's bound to put on a show with another explosive performance. I expect him to pour in around 21 points while sprinkling in assists and rebounds to round out his box score. On the defensive end, Jarrett Allen is set to be a force with his commanding presence on the boards—grabbing more than a few of those rebounds he's known for, perhaps even hitting the double-digit mark. And then there's Darius Garland, who should keep the offense humming with savvy playmaking; popping in some points while setting his teammates up for success.

Switching gears to the Timberwolves, Anthony Edwards is going to be the focal point of their offensive strategy. This guy's athleticism is next level and, it's hard to see him not putting up a big number of points, potentially leading the Wolves’ charge against the rough Cavs defense. Rudy Gobert anchors their defense and will likely battle down low, looking to grab every rebound in sight. Not to mention, Julius Randle is expected to offer a solid all-around performance—contributing in points, assists, and helping on the glass. These three seem poised to drive the Timberwolves’ efforts at the Target Center but let's not forget about the supporting players who can also swing the momentum.

In terms of who might walk away with the win, it's a battle that's going to be closer than it might appear on paper. The Cavaliers, sitting comfortably at the top of the Eastern Conference, are favorites given their tremendous season so far. But the Timberwolves, despite some ups and downs, can give them a real run for their money, especially with their decent home record. Nevertheless, my gut leans towards the Cavaliers. With their offense clicking and the depth they boast, they might just eke out a victory on the road. What do you think? Can the Timberwolves rally in front of the home crowd to pull an upset? Should be a fun one to watch!

Minnesota Timberwolves

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