Sunday’s NBA Pick: Celtics vs. Timberwolves Betting Preview

Minnesota Timberwolves (8-7 SU, 5-10 ATS) vs. Boston Celtics (13-3 SU, 7-9 ATS)

When: Sunday, November 24th, 3:30 PM (ET)

Where: TD Garden, MA, Boston

TV: NBCS

Point Spread: Min +8/Bos -8

Total: 222.5

Money Line: Minnesota Timberwolves +266/-333

Notable Injuries

Timberwolves

• Mike Conley (Out) Toe

Celtics

• Al Horford (Questionable) Illness
• Kristaps Porzingis (Out) Foot

Recent Form

Minnesota dropped to 8-7 after a 110-105 loss to the Raptors on Thursday. Despite being 6.5-point favorites, they failed to cover the spread, with the total finishing under the 226 line. The Timberwolves led heading into the fourth quarter but were outscored 33-26 in the final period.

Boston improved to 13-3 following a 108-96 victory over the Wizards on Friday. The Celtics were favored by 15.5 points but didn’t cover. Despite a shaky start, Boston’s defense tightened in the second half, holding Washington to 96 points total.

The Historicals

In recent matchups, Boston has dominated offensively, averaging 119 points per game against Minnesota. The Timberwolves have gone 3-2 ATS in their last five meetings, and four of those games went over the total.

Analysis

The Timberwolves’ offensive struggles in their last outing were evident, shooting just 41.2% from the field and 34.3% from three. Anthony Edwards led the team with 26 points, hitting five threes, but his effort wasn’t enough to overcome defensive lapses in the fourth quarter.

Boston relied on Jaylen Brown’s 31-point performance to secure their latest win. However, their shooting efficiency remains a concern, as they hit just 42.4% of field goals and 23.9% of threes. Defensively, they continue to shine, holding the Wizards to 96 points and limiting them to 25% shooting from deep.

Betting Trends

• Minnesota has gone 4-6 SU and ATS in their last 10 road games, averaging 111 points per contest.
• Boston is 3-0 SU and 2-1 ATS in their last three home games, averaging 120 points per game while allowing 105.
• The Timberwolves are 6-4 SU and ATS in their last 10 games as underdogs.
• Boston is 4-1 SU but just 1-4 ATS in their last five games as favorites.

Joe’s Pick to Cover the Spread

The Timberwolves’ inconsistent play makes them a risky underdog, especially against a Celtics team that thrives at home. Boston’s defensive edge and superior depth, even without Kristaps Porzingis, should allow them to cover the -8 spread. Look for the Celtics to dominate late and secure a comfortable win.