This game could have some impact on what ranking they obtain, which adds to the appeal of this game for bettors, as there could be some value to the odds being offered.
With the game scheduled for Thursday, March 26, at 12:30 AEDT, let's preview it below…
Quick Picks
Our pick: Rockets to win
Value bet: Timberwolves in the handicap
Long shot: Rockets to win by 1-10 points
Betting Preview
While both look likely to have an automatic berth, this game could help the winner bolster their chances of having a better seed in what has been an extremely tough and competitive Western Conference all season.
The Timberwolves will go into the game off the back of a victory, moving to 44-28 for the year. They are 24-13 at home, and 27-21 against teams in the West. It's a very strong record, with Anthony Edwards among their key stars.
The Rockets have been almost equal with Minnesota to this point. Houston will have played the Chicago Bulls on Tuesday before this game. However, figures before this one have them at 43-27 for the season, going 18-17 on the road. Both teams are 5-5 over their last 10 games, although this will change for the Rockets by the time of Thursday's contest.
Betting Markets to Watch
Let's look at the previous meetings between these two teams for a bit of context. Minnesota are 11-4 over the last 15 meetings. However, they are on a two-game losing streak to Houston, with the one meeting earlier this season finishing 110-105 in favour of the Rockets.
In that game, Julius Randle was a key threat for a team minus Edwards, as he scored 39 points for Minnesota. Still, it wasn't enough, as the Rockets had Kevin Durant also put up 39, while Alperen Sengun added a further 25 (along with 14 rebounds for a double-double).
Edwards is likely to be unavailable for this game too, but Minnesota have a positive record at home against the Rockets. They've won six of the last seven at home, which is why we think the handicap will offer more value for the Timberwolves than the moneyline. Despite being without Edwards, they should still have enough quality to cover the spread.
Randle will need to be a key contributor, which is why we think there's value in 20+ points following a couple of low scores.
Our Prediction
Check the latest NBA betting odds at Sportsbet.
We think a Houston Rockets win is the most likely outcome. Still, we think it's going to be close, which is why we think Minnesota will cover the spread in the handicap.
For a long shot, we think that the Big Win Little Win market will offer value, especially with a Houston win. We think Houston by 1-10 points has value worth exploring. If you're new to how to bet on the NBA, this matchup offers a good opportunity to explore different markets.
With both teams locked in for the NBA playoffs betting picture, seeding becomes the primary motivation here.
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