10/22 NBA Preview: Minnesota Timberwolves -1 vs. LA Lakers | Total: 221
As the NBA season gets underway, my best advice is to tread lightly during the first week or two. That being said, if I get to the window on this game, it would be with Minnesota on the moneyline at -120. The Lakers enter the season with few changes, and their play may decline with Bronny James now on the roster. The line has flipped for a reason and will likely continue to rise as the day goes on.
Minnesota is a solid team, led by MVP candidate Anthony Edwards. While losing Karl-Anthony Towns is a blow, the additions of Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo are solid replacements. The Timberwolves will be fully motivated and healthy enough to control this Lakers team. While the Lakers will be looking to push the pace, Minnesota’s top-5 transition defense should be able to limit their effectiveness.
LeBron James is 0-6 in season openers, and I expect that record to move to 0-7. I’m treading lightly, so I’m not sure if this will make the final card, but I’m leaning toward Minnesota ML -120.
Lean: Minnesota ML -120.