Atlanta Hawks vs Minnesota Timberwolves
PREVIEW: The Atlanta Hawks will attempt to break a five-game home losing skid when hosting the Minnesota Timberwolves on December 31 , setting up a fascinating clash between two teams moving in opposite directions. Atlanta has lost their last seven games in a row, dropping them to the 10th spot in the Eastern Conference , while Minnesota is off to an impressive start this season with six wins in their last 10 games . The Timberwolves' offensive firepower remains a constant threat, as Anthony Edwards averages 29.1 points and shoots 49.7 percent from the field with 39.7 percent accuracy from downtown . Unfortunately, detailed shot quality metrics are not available for either team ahead of this matchup, making it difficult to assess the efficiency and spacing of their scoring opportunities.
Minnesota claimed a dominant 136-101 road victory against Chicago with Naz Reid tallying 33 points and Anthony Edwards adding 23 , showcasing the depth that makes them difficult to contain. The Hawks, meanwhile, suffered a 140-129 road loss to Oklahoma City in their last outing , extending their recent struggles on both ends of the floor. The Timberwolves have won 14 of their last 15 games against Eastern Conference opponents that held a losing record , which could provide further confidence heading into State Farm Arena. This matchup shapes up as a classic case of unstoppable force meeting an immovable object, with Minnesota's consistency tested against an Atlanta team desperately seeking any path back to relevance.