With the NBA season now in full swing, teams have already crossed the 45-game mark as January draws to a close.

The Oklahoma City Thunder and the Minnesota Timberwolves are set to clash for the third time this season on Thursday. Both teams, contenders in the Northwest Division, are no strangers to each other.

Their head-to-head encounters this season have resulted in a 1-1 tie, each team securing a win on their home court. Last year’s Western Conference Finals saw OKC oust Anthony Edwards and the Timberwolves in just five games.

Thunder vs. Timberwolves odds, prediction

Anthony Edwards has consistently risen to the occasion against Oklahoma City, posting averages of 28.5 points, 10 rebounds, and sinking four three-pointers per game this season. Still, facing a division rival on the latter half of a back-to-back could spell trouble for Minnesota.

The Timberwolves recently enjoyed a commanding 25-point victory over the Golden State Warriors. However, it’s worth noting that the Warriors were missing key players Stephen Curry and Draymond Green during that matchup. Prior to this win, Minnesota was in the midst of a five-game losing streak, which included a significant 26-point defeat to a full-strength Warriors team.

Despite key starters Jalen Williams and Isaiah Hartenstein missing time, the Thunder have covered in their last two road games. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander remains a steady source of offense, as the reigning MVP’s 32-point average rank second-best in the league. 

Their starting lineup features versatile defenders, Lu Dort and Chet Holmgren, who contribute to a top-rated defense that allows an NBA-low 107.9 points per game. 

Betting on the NBA?

Mark Daigneault’s ability to get the most out of his rotations is impeccable, as role players Isaiah Joe, Aaron Wiggins, and Kenrich Williams each have responded well to increased minutes.

With the Thunder’s last game on Tuesday versus the Pelicans, they will come in with fresher legs and an extra day of rest. On the season, they are 8-5 against the spread (ATS) with a rest advantage. 

This game will mark Minnesota’s fourth in five days, a brutal stretch.

I’m backing the Thunder and their stout defense to cover. 

THE PLAY: Thunder -6 (-106, FanDuel)

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Mike Turay is a sports journalist and editor who closely follows the NBA, NFL, college sports and UFC. He has demonstrated expertise in both NBA and NFL player prop bets for nearly three years. Mike is also highly knowledgeable about the sportsbook offer landscape, frequently trying and reviewing the latest apps and sites.