The Knicks will play the Timberwolves on Friday at Madison Square Garden.
If this game plays out like the last time these teams met, it will be a long night for All-Star big man Rudy Gobert.
On Dec. 19, when the Knicks traveled to Minnesota, Gobert was virtually off the court, playing just 22 minutes, his lowest total of the season.
Gobert made just one basket, added a free throw, and finished with just three points and four rebounds, his second fewest of the season.
In this game, the Knicks posted a team-worst record of -37 under Gobert, defeating the Timberwolves 133-107.
Karl-Anthony Towns and the Knicks' wing-heavy lineup is a formidable matchup for Gobert, as he has the ability to cross rotations and take heavy-footed big men off the dribble.
Knicks vs. Timberwolves odds
| team | spread | money line | total |
|---|---|---|---|
| knicks | -4.5 (-105) | -190 | 219.5 or higher (-105) |
| Timberwolves | +4.5 (-115) | +155 | Less than 219.5 (-115) |
Knicks vs. Timberwolves predictions
Even if KAT, who missed Wednesday's game with a thumb injury, is unavailable, Precious Achiuwa has the athleticism to cause problems for Gobert.
Against this Knicks lineup, expect the Timberwolves to once again rely on more athletic frontcourt options like Julius Randle and Naz Reid.
Against other teams, Gobert's playing time took a hit as the season progressed, dropping from 35 minutes per game in October to less than 32 minutes per game this month.
His scoring (8.4 points per game) and rebounding (10.3 points per game) have also understandably taken a hit this month, both the lowest in a full season since his second NBA season a decade ago. It becomes a record.
Would you like to bet on the NBA?
Gobert has had double-digit rebounds in just 10 of his last 20 games and even fewer games with double-digit points.
I'd bet on the Knicks keeping him in check once again.
Play: Rudy Gobert under 20.5 points + rebounds (-115, bet 365)
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Dylan Svoboda is a versatile writer and analyst in various sports fields. He is especially knowledgeable about the Big 3, MLB, NFL, and NBA.
