The upcoming clash between the Minnesota Timberwolves and Portland Trail Blazers is arguably more important for the visitors in this game than the hosts.

The two teams will face each other on Saturday, March 21, at 12:00 AEDT, with potential postseason connotations on the line for Portland.

Although there are still a handful of games to be played, they are in a position that sees them on the fringes of the NBA playoffs betting. Minnesota have already secured a berth, but they'll be gunning for a higher seeding.

Quick Picks

Our pick: Timberwolves to win

Value bet: Anthony Edwards to have 30+ points

Long shot: Timberwolves to win by 11+ points in the Big Win Little Win

Betting Preview

It's a fixture that the Timberwolves have largely enjoyed over the years. They are unbeaten in the last four to have been played between them, while they are 8-2 over the last 10. It's very strong form, and with how they've been performing throughout the NBA regular season, it won't be a surprise to see them as favourites.

Of the three games played so far in this campaign, Minnesota have won 124-121, 133-109, and 118-114. It's worth taking into account how well they did in the 133-109 victory, as this was played at home. Julius Randle had 41 points in that game, while Anthony Edwards was kept relatively quiet with 14 (considering his regular-season average).

Still, there's an evident trend: Minnesota have won the last five played at home between these two teams. Before entering this week's slate of games, the team were 22-12 at home, going 25-20 against Western Conference sides, and 6-4 over their last 10.

In contrast, the Portland Trail Blazers are 15-20 on the road, 5-5 over the last 10 matches, but are also 24-19 against conference rivals.

Betting Markets to Watch

We think the player props can offer some value worth exploring, especially as the NBA can be unpredictable. If you're new to how to bet on basketball, this matchup provides some interesting angles.

Should he play, Anthony Edwards, "Ant-Man", is a player who could offer value, given that he didn't have the best game the last time these two teams were in Minnesota. In Portland, he had scores of 34 and 41 in his last two games, highlighting where his ceiling is. We think 30+ points is likely, as he has surpassed this number multiple times this season.

Deni Avdija is another player worth checking out. The Israeli has the ability to score multiple points and has done so since returning to court action. It's likely another 15+ point game will occur for him.

Our Prediction

Check the latest NBA betting odds at Sportsbet.

The likely winner of this game is the Timberwolves. Minnesota have a solid record against Portland, having won the last four straight. They've also won five in a row when playing as the hosts, meaning they'll be heavily favoured.

Our long shot is in the Big Win Little Win market, with the Timberwolves to win by 11+ points. This has occurred six times over the last 10 matches, including three of the last four home games. For more NBA tips and predictions, check out our dedicated tips page.

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