Friday evening features an Orlando Magic vs. Minnesota Timberwolves game at the Target Center. The hosts are on a six-game winning streak. Today’s visitors, meanwhile, are losers of three of their last five. Coach Finch took the first game in a decisive 104-89 win earlier in Florida.
For tonight, Cole Anthony will miss his second straight game with a toe injury. Jalen Suggs and Mo Wagner have been declared out for the season through injuries of their own. The home team, meanwhile, appears fully healthy.
Over/Under for Orlando Magic vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
This is a low point total. It’s understandable as to why the mark is set at 208.5. The visitors in particular, often struggle to produce points. Add to the fact that they are so shorthanded, it may be asking too much for them to do their part for the potential over.
The hosts have a great number one option in Anthony Edwards. At times, though, his teammates can fail to support him enough in the scoring department as well. That being said, the over is the correct play here. Automatically going for the under with a defensive team isn’t always the right choice. Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero should be able to chip in enough for this total to not be an issue.
Final Pick: Over 208.5 (-115)
Moneyline/Spread for Orlando Magic vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
The spread is too much to pick the favorites tonight. Coach Finch should be able to do enough to get the win. To win by double digits, however, is too risky. Even with a depleted roster, coach Mosley fields competitive sides more often than not. Three of their last losses, for example, came at a combined 10-point deficit.
It’s unlikely for the road team to pull off an upset tonight. Their covering and keeping it close enough is doable. If the line were lower, then maybe it would be wise to consider taking the favorites, but not at 10+.
