NBA 2022/23, on Wednesday, 12.04.2023
In the photo finish, both teams went long again, but it still wasn’t quite enough for a spot in the NBA play-offs, which begin soon. Now the decision has to be made in a direct duel.
In my Lakers Timberwoles tip, it should be clear to everyone that the purple and gold have by far the better cards.
Because with the thick air that prevails at the Wolves after the scandalous performance against the Pels, I personally would not want to be in the skin of Head Coach Chris Finch.
In the end, it wasn’t quite enough for a direct playoff berth, but what a run the Lakers have had since LeBron James returned.
Granted, the legend wasn’t quite at 100% and the winning streak strictly speaking started three games before his comeback. Still, there’s no denying that “The King” has put his team back on track.
With nine wins from their last eleven NBA appearances, the purple and gold not only put together a great final spurt, but also present themselves in generally good shape just in time for the 7-8 Game.
LeBron James has cracked the 33-point mark in three of his last four appearances and in such form he could already be half the battle for a win in the important 7-8 Game.
Especially if what everyone is currently talking about comes true. Even Arnold Schwarzenegger’s son has called for Rudy Gobert to be suspended for his attempted fisticuffs.
A final decision has not yet been made by the federation, but it is highly likely that the verdict will be announced later today to suspend the Frenchman for the play-in tournament.
The imprudence of the important centre in wanting to punch his own teammate in the game against the Pelicans could prove fatal with regard to the duel against the Lakers.
For precisely because Gobert is an excellent player on the five who directs the defence and at the same time could slow LeBron James down a bit in his forays, this suspension cannot be ranked high enough for ranking the Wolves’ chances of success.
Sportsbooks already seem to be assuming the worst and have designed their Lakers Timberwolves betting odds so that the purple and gold go into this one as clear favourites with an average of 1.40.
Nonetheless, many NBA fans would probably only want to take those 1.40 odds offered on a Lila Golden win if the Frenchman were to actually miss.
While the Lakers won the last showdown 123-111 on April 1, the Wolves are 2-1 in season duels – even 4-1 if you count preseason matchups.
Further, Minnesota has also ended the season on a good run, winning 70% of its last 10 regular-season games, albeit mostly against the more game-weak franchises.
By the way, there seems to be some truth to the rumour that Jaden McDaniel hit the wall out of frustration in the game against the Pelicans, injuring his hand.
The Wolves’ first-round pick is said to have been so upset about the whole incident that he actually caused a self-inflicted injury that will keep him out of action until the end of the season.
And I don’t think I need to mention at this point that the air is thick at Minnesota anyway, even if Gobert doesn’t get suspended. The Frenchman was sent straight to the dressing room by the coach after the scuffle on the floor.
Nevertheless, I firmly expect head coach Chris Finch to reinstate him if the NBA does not impose a suspension. Otherwise, he might as well save himself the trip to Los Angeles!
The Wolves have already lost their chance for the play-offs in the last game of the season against the Pels: Rudy Gobert wants to punch his teammate, while Josh McDaniels is so angry about a foul that he sprains his hand on the cabin door.
Both of MIN’s key players could now miss the game against the Lakers, which would of course have disastrous consequences for the Minnesota franchise.
For once, the Lakers have everyone healthy and in full gear. Led by LeBron James, they should be able to secure their ticket to the play-offs without much trouble.
My Lakers Timberwolves tip: LAL wins at handicap -6.5.
