Kyle Lowry is the leader behind the dominating Raptors.

Minnesota vs Toronto NBA Hoops Betting Guide

Written by on February 23, 2016

With still more than 20 games to play in the regular season, NBA fans would hope that their team would still have a legitimate shot at landing a playoff berth. The harsh reality, though, is that there are already a handful of teams who may still be mathematically in the hunt, but who have absolutely no shot at seeing the postseason anywhere other than on television. The Minnesota Timberwolves have to be included in that group, as they are now 10.5 games back of the final spot in the West. Given that they have only won 18 games all year suggests that they have no way back at this. Things are a little different north of the border, where the Toronto Raptors are still very much in the hunt to win the Eastern Conference. These two teams will hook up on Wednesday night, with the Raptors sure to be firm NBA Odds favorites to win.

Minnesota Timberwolves Vs Toronto Raptors NBA Odds, TV & Game Info

When: Wednesday, February 24, 7:30 PM EST Where: Air Canada Centre, Toronto TV: FSN Radio: KFWB and CHUM Live Stream: FoxSportsGo NBA Odds: TBA

Why bet on the Minnesota Timberwolves

The Timberwolves (18-39) have been awful all season long, but it should be noted that they took out the Raptors 117-112 when they met in Minnesota earlier this month. They lost the 2 games immediately following that victory, but have returned to winning ways by taking out the Boston Celtics over the weekend. Despite a couple of decent wins of late, the Timberwolves have still only managed to go 4-6 in their last 10 games. They are also a team that is not very productive on the road, as they are just 8-19 away from home this season. Surprisingly enough, though, they have done well against teams from the Atlantic Division, going 4-4 in the 8 games they have played against them. Minnesota are averaging 100.8 PPG, and are giving up 104.5 PPG.

Why bet on the Toronto Raptors

After losing back to back games, including one to the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Raptors (37-18) appear to be back in business. They have won two in a row heading into this one, and are still within 3 games of the Cleveland Cavaliers atop the Eastern Conference. While some may look at the loss to the Timberwolves as a sign that this one could have upset potential, it’s worth remembering that the Raptors had won 8 straight regular season games against Minnesota before taking that hit. You also have to pay attention to the fact that the Raptors are 25-9 on home court this season, and have put together a 21-9 record versus teams with a losing record. That all points in the direction of a home win here. The Raptors are averaging 102.2 PPG, and are giving up 97.5 PPG.

Expert Pick and Final Score Prediction

I think the Raptors will be out for a little bit of revenge on Wednesday night, especially with the previous loss to Minnesota probably still feeling quite fresh. I see them rolling to a fairly comfortable win as they continue to apply pressure on the Cavs. Minnesota Timberwolves 98 Toronto Raptors 107