The Timberwolves put together a commanding 117-93 NBA playoffs win over the Warriors on Thursday. While Anthony Edwards usually carries Minnesota, it was Julius Randle that took control in Game 2. Now, with this Western Conference semifinals series tied up 1-1, what can the Wolves expect from their power forward?
The Timberwolves enter tonight’s contest as 6.5-point favorites, with the over/under set at 200.5 points. Here’s the best Julius Randle prop bet on DraftKings Sportsbook before Saturday’s Game 3 tips off.
Randle O 6.5 rebounds (-110)
At his best, Randle is a true all-around threat, capable of dissecting a defense as a scorer or a passer. That was the case on Thursday, in which he put together a 24-point, seven-rebound, 11-assist stat line. This season, the three-time All-Star averaged 18.7 points, 7.1 rebounds and 4.7 assists to go with 48.5/34.4/80.6 shooting splits.
Throughout his career, Randle has had mixed success against Golden State. During his last ten meetings with the Warriors, he’s posted 19.9 points, 8.5 rebounds and 4.9 assists. However, the veteran has failed to score 20 points in six of those contests. Even with Anthony Edwards struggling to shoot recently, it’s difficult to trust Randle against this stingy Dubs defense.
Edwards, despite his lackluster play as of late, will command plenty of touches tonight. Still, Randle is too talented not to make an impact in Game 3. The most likely way that can happen is on the glass; however, the big man has snagged more than five boards only twice this postseason.
On the flip side, Golden State isn’t very big in its front court. The Warriors often run a small-ball five with Draymond Green (6’6″) serving as center. That’s typically been to Randle’s favor, allowing him to grab some easy rebounds. In eight of his last ten meetings with the Warriors, Minnesota’s power forward has hauled in at least seven boards. Given how Randle looked in Game 2, he should remain active on both ends of the floor tonight.
