NBA 2018-19 Predictions: Crystal Ball for 24th October

#4 Minnesota Timberwolves at Toronto Raptors, Scotiabank Arena

USA Basketball Men's National Team Training Camp

Win/Loss column: Raptors 4-0, Timberwolves 2-2

Rest: Raptors - 1 day, Wolves - 1 day

Tip-off: 7:30 PM ET, 5 AM IST

Preview:

The Jimmy Butler standoff notwithstanding, the Wolves have a couple of bright spots to cheer for this season already - Derrick Rose has shown flashes of the vintage offensive play from his heyday, while Wiggins and Towns look visibly improved and committed to the defensive end of the floor. They will look to tighten things up on the road.

The Raptors, on the other hand, have had the best possible start to the season, staying perfect through the four games including a marquee game at home against the Celtics.

Kawhi is not yet 100% physically ready for playoff action, but even at sub 100% he has still been a legitimate menace on both ends of the floor, while Kyle Lowry has been raining 3-pointers so far. Having one of the deepest benches in the league can only help the Raps' chances.

Matchup to look out for: Jimmy Butler vs Kawhi Leonard

Prediction: Raptors win handily (10-15 points), securing the W by the start of the fourth quarter.