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The Minnesota Timberwolves will face their sternest test in the 2020-21 season so far when they take on the LA Lakers. Both teams enter this game on the back of a win and will be hoping to keep that momentum going.
Match Details
Fixture: Minnesota Timberwolves vs LA Lakers | NBA Season 2020-21
Date & Time: Sunday, December 27th, 10 PM ET (Monday, 8:30 AM IST)
Venue: Staples Center, Los Angeles, CA
Click here to check out the 2020-21 NBA Schedule
Minnesota Timberwolves Preview
The Minnesota Timberwolves have had a couple of close shaves so far. They left it late against the Detroit Pistons and almost let a 15-point lead slip against the Utah Jazz. But it's encouraging to see a team that would usually capitulate in clutch situations holding their nerve.
Karl-Anthony Towns has been the most valuable player for Ryan Saunders' side but he's slated to be out for a few games with a wrist injury. Meanwhile, rookie Anthony Edwards has put a decent account of himself as well by averaging 16.5 points through his first two games for the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Key Player - D'Angelo Russell
D'Angelo Russell has started this season well for the Minnesota Timberwolves, averaging 21.5 points and five assists through two games. He's shooting at 41.2% from deep on 8.5 attempts per outi which is a healthy average. More importantly, Russell is taking better care of possession and not committing many turnovers.
Minnesota Timberwolves Predicted Lineup
G D'Angelo Russell, G Malik Beasley, F Josh Okogie, F Jake Layman, C Naz Reid
LA Lakers Preview
After a blip of sorts in the season opener, the LA Lakers came roaring back on Christmas Day to easily dispatch the Dallas Mavericks. The Purple and Gold shot the ball exceptionally well in that game and will be hoping to build on that. Their efforts on the glass were rewarded as they managed 35 second-chance points.
The LA Lakers have a much deeper roster than last time. While Marc Gasol and Wes Matthews still need some time to set going, Dennis Schroder and Montrezl Harrell have hit the ground running. Anthony Davis and LeBron James are imperial as usual while Kyle Kuzma continues to improve as a two-way player.
Key Player - Anthony Davis
There's no doubting the quality that LeBron brings to the table. However, this might be the year where Anthony Davis eclipses his leader on the LA Lakers. AD has looked more explosive on both ends of the court to start the season and his distance shooting has improved too. He'll be hoping to make the most of Towns' absence by dominating the Minnesota Timberwolves on Sunday.
LA Lakers Predicted Lineup
G Dennis Schroder, G Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, F LeBron James, F Anthony Davis, C Marc Gasol
Timberwolves vs Lakers Match Prediction
The Minnesota Timberwolves have showcased some defensive tenacity to start the season. However, they've failed to maintain that level throughout the game and their offense primarily relies on the three players right now. In comparison, the LA Lakers have tremendous depth to produce points and get stops regularly on both ends of the court. Expect LeBron James and co. to win this one.
Where to watch Timberwolves vs Lakers?
Local broadcast of the game will be available on FOX Sports North and Spectrum SportsNet. National telecast of the same will be available on NBA TV. You can also live stream this matchup via the NBA League Pass.
Also read: NBA Rumors - LA Lakers engage in contract discussions with Dennis Schroder
Guess the Lakers players!
