Following Tuesday’s 99-88 defeat against the Warriors, it looked like the Timberwolves were in trouble. That may still be the case, but an injury to Steph Curry has shifted the balance of this series. If Minnesota is going to take advantage of Golden State’s misfortune, it’ll need a win on Thursday. That means more players need to step up alongside Anthony Edwards, including Julius Randle. What can the Wolves expect from their power forward in this crucial NBA playoffs matchup?
The Timberwolves enter tonight’s contest as 10.5-point favorites, with the over/under set at 201 points. Here’s the best Julius Randle prop bet on DraftKings Sportsbook before Thursday’s game tips off.
Julius Randle U 31.5 points + rebounds + assists (-110)
Randle’s poor playoff performances in years past have been a constant sticking point throughout his career. However, the big man has enjoyed a productive postseason thus far. Through six games, he’s averaged 21.8 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.7 assists on 46.7% shooting. In four of his five appearances against the Lakers last round, Randle scored at least 22 points.
Unfortunately for Minnesota, the Warriors are a much tougher defense compared to Los Angeles. This season, Golden State has held opponents to 109.8 points per game, the seventh-lowest mark in basketball. The Timberwolves have put up a paltry 107.8 points over their last five matchups with the Dubs. Elite defenders such as Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler can wreak havoc on both ends of the court.
Among the players who have struggled for Minnesota in this spot, Randle needs to be mentioned. During his last five meetings vs. Golden State, the three-time All-Star has only produced 16.2 points. That includes an 18-point showing on 4-for-11 shooting in Game 1. At some point during this series, it’s liklely that Randle finds his groove as a scorer. However, it’s impossible to know when that will occur.
Even if Julius gets more buckets in Game 2, putting together an all-around performance will be difficult. Randle has failed to reach 32 points + rebounds + assists in each of his last seven outings against the Warriors. Expect a better effort tonight, but not the kind of stat-stuffing evening Minnesota fans are hoping for.
