Minnesota Timberwolves - Phoenix Suns predictions and free betting tips [23/04/2024]

The Minnesota Timberwolves and Phoenix Suns are set to clash tomorrow in the second quarterfinal series of the NBA Western Conference.

Minnesota Timberwolves

The Minnesota Timberwolves kicked off the playoffs with an assertive 120:95 victory over the Phoenix Suns, showcasing their strength in the third quarter with a decisive 21:5 run, putting them 20 points clear. Anthony Edwards made a significant contribution, racking up 33 points and grabbing 9 rebounds, underpinning his status as a key player. He also dished out 6 assists, emphasising his leadership qualities on the court. Karl-Anthony Towns added 19 points and 7 rebounds, while Nickeil Alexander-Walker emerged as one of the top bench players, netting 18 points.

In the first match, the Timberwolves scored 120 points at a 50% shooting rate and conceded 95 points at 44% shooting. They take the lead in three-point shooting, hitting 37.5% from beyond the arc and a remarkable 90.9% from the free-throw line, allowing them to dominate offensively. On the defensive end, they also performed well, limiting opponent's three-pointers to 32.1% and collecting 52 rebounds per game, making them one of the top defensive teams in the league. In the opening game of the series, the Timberwolves displayed confidence and control, holding the Suns to just 44 points in the second half. 

Phoenix Suns

The Phoenix Suns suffered a hefty defeat to Minnesota in the first game of the series, forcing the team to reassess their strategies. Kevin Durant scored 31 points, making 11 out of 17 shots, demonstrating high efficacy. However, the overall team performance wasn't enough to secure the win, especially after trailing by 25 points at halftime. The Suns delivered stronger results in the regular season but have encountered additional challenges in the playoffs. Booker highlighted the need for adapting to playoff-level intensity, considering the physical style of play employed by Minnesota.

This became particularly evident when he picked up three early fouls and was forced to retreat to the bench. In the first playoff match, the Suns encountered difficulties, allowing the opponent to score 120 points at a 50% shooting rate, while they only made 44% of their own attempts. The team's efficacy beyond the three-point line was low as well, with only 32.1% of shots making the basket, significantly underperforming their usual productivity. Among other players, Royce O'Neal and Jusuf Nurkic were unable to boost the offensive play.

Head to Head

In the regular season, the Suns took all 3 encounters, each with a 10-point margin.

Prediction for the match Minnesota Timberwolves - Phoenix Suns

I don't believe in the Wolves securing a victory in this series for the second time in a row. The Suns definitely have comparable talent, and coach Frank Vogel should devise a strategy. Phoenix plays off the attack, so I'd try a bet on a total score over 208.5 points.