Minnesota Timberwolves vs Los Angeles Lakers Prediction, Odds and Picks for Today, 10/22/24

Minnesota was an intriguing team coming into the season. They had a breakthrough in the playoffs last year, beating Denver, and guard Anthony Edwards is one of the most exciting players in the league. Things were on the up, and then they made a major trade, bringing in forward Julius Randle (for Karl-Anthony Towns). He is a versatile offensive player and might be a good fit, but it is hard to integrate a talent like that quickly. 

The Lakers are another interesting team, but not necessarily for the right reasons. They still have the duo of Lebron James and Anthony Davis, but running it back with the same roster makes it hard to see how this team is much more than average this season, especially with a first-year head coach in JJ Reddick. He might be a savant, but I am skeptical right now. I am over the Bronny James stuff, but at the same time, it is not going to help this team be a contender. 

Betting spreads on opening night is tough. We know everything there is to know about LeBron and Davis, and guys like Rudy Gobert with the Wolves, but how is it all going to come together this season? Minnesota is a road favorite but this game is essentially a pick’em at -1.5. The market is with Minnesota and I can’t find a reason not to be on that side too. They have a number of advantages even if Los Angeles will be as healthy as they can be to start the year. Look for “Ant-Man” to have a monster opener. 

Minnesota -1.5 available at publishing. Playable to -2.5.