Minnesota has the stronger early-season profile, but Anthony Edwards’ absence puts the spotlight on its supporting cast against a Clippers team searching for control.
This early-season meeting offers a chance to gain ground: Minnesota is 3-2 and fifth in the power index, while the 1-3 Clippers sit 21st. The Timberwolves average 120.4 points per game, but they will be without Anthony Edwards, whose 133 points in four games led the team; Rudy Gobert has grabbed 60 rebounds in five appearances. For Los Angeles, Darius Garland has 86 points and 26 assists in four games, though his 22 turnovers make ball security a key matchup against Minnesota. Gobert’s work on the glass and LaMelo Ball’s 33 assists will be central to whether the Edwards-less Wolves can sustain their scoring edge against a Clippers side averaging 108 points allowed.