New York Knicks vs Minnesota Timberwolves
PREVIEW: The Minnesota Timberwolves visit Madison Square Garden to face the New York Knicks on Wednesday , a matchup that carries significant weight given the recent player movement between these franchises. The Knicks boast elite defensive metrics, ranking first in defense against attacks at the rim and first in defensive rebounding, while also shooting efficiently from three-point range at 47.8% as a team. Anthony Edwards remains questionable after missing time with a hamstring injury, a variable that could dramatically shift Minnesota's offensive ceiling if he takes the floor. The Timberwolves rank fifth in limiting shots attacking the rim on defense but sit 20th against such attempts, suggesting potential vulnerabilities that New York could exploit.
New York allows only 113.6 points per game, ranking among the league's best defensively , yet the Knicks have maintained balanced scoring with Towns posting 33 points against Washington while Anunoby and Bridges provide consistent double-digit contributions. Minnesota averages 116.9 points scored and 115.6 allowed, numbers that mask their resilience and execution in close contests. The Knicks prefer controlled, half-court basketball while the Timberwolves thrive on forcing turnovers and transition opportunities, and should the game turn into a physical, low-possession battle, Minnesota's size could become a deciding factor. The Timberwolves' low frequency of post-up attempts at 29th in the league contrasts sharply with the Knicks' similarly low ranking, suggesting both teams favor perimeter-oriented offenses.