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Game preview: Knicks vs Timberwolves
This Friday, the New York Knicks will host the Minnesota Timberwolves at the iconic Madison Square Garden. Fans are buzzing with anticipation, especially after the Knicks’ previous encounter with the Timberwolves, where they delivered a decisive 133-107 victory.
The spotlight will be on All-Star center Rudy Gobert, who had a rough outing in that game, logging only 22 minutes and scoring just three points. With the Knicks’ dynamic lineup, Gobert faces another uphill battle.
Rudy Gobert’s recent performance
Rudy Gobert, known for his defensive prowess and rebounding skills, has seen a decline in his performance this season. His average minutes have dropped from 35 in October to under 32 this month. This decline has also affected his scoring and rebounding averages, which currently sit at 8.4 points and 10.3 rebounds per game.
These numbers are concerning, as they would mark the lowest for him since his sophomore season in the NBA. In fact, Gobert has recorded double-digit rebounds in only ten of his last 20 games, and his scoring has been even less consistent.
Matchup challenges for Gobert
The Knicks’ wing-heavy lineup poses a significant challenge for Gobert. Players like Julius Randle and Naz Reid are not only athletic but also capable of taking Gobert off the dribble, exploiting his slower foot speed.
Even if Karl-Anthony Towns, who missed a recent game due to a thumb injury, is unable to play, the Timberwolves have other options that can challenge Gobert’s defensive capabilities. The Knicks will likely focus on utilizing their speed and agility to keep Gobert on his toes, making it difficult for him to impact the game as he usually would.
Betting insights and predictions
As the game approaches, betting lines are starting to reflect the anticipated challenges Gobert will face. With the odds suggesting that he may struggle to reach 20.5 points and rebounds combined, many analysts are leaning towards betting against him. The Knicks’ strategy will likely center around containing Gobert and capitalizing on their athletic advantages. Fans and bettors alike will be watching closely to see if the Knicks can replicate their previous success against the Timberwolves.
