Knicks vs. Timberwolves Prediction
The new-look Knicks face old friends turned foes in the Timberwolves. The teams will meet Wednesday night at Madison Square Garden.
Anthony Edwards is listed as questionable due to a hamstring strain, so he might not play. Watching former Knicks Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo in their new roles with Minnesota will be a key storyline, as they were traded for Karl-Anthony Towns last season.
Season Starts and Records
Neither team has looked like a future conference finalist yet, but it is still early in the season. Both squads come into this matchup with winning records after decisive wins over two of the league's weakest teams on Monday night.
Contrasting Styles
The Knicks have adopted a fresh system focusing on ball and player movement, a positive change after years of stagnant offense, including the period when Randle was with the team. This approach has produced a high number of three-point attempts (43.9 per game, third-most in the NBA), though their shooting accuracy is just above average at 36.5%.
The Timberwolves rely more heavily on isolation plays. They lead the NBA in points per game on isolation (12.7) but rank last in potential assists (38.7), reflecting fewer passes leading to shot attempts.
"The Knicks’ new system, which emphasizes ball and player movement, has been a welcome sight after years of stagnant offense."
"The Wolves lead the NBA in points per game on iso plays (12.7) and rank last in potential assists (38.7)."
Author’s summary: The Knicks and Timberwolves face off with distinct styles and key player storylines, each aiming to build momentum early in the season.