Chicago Bulls vs Minnesota Timberwolves Prediction | 01.22.26

Chicago Bulls vs Minnesota Timberwolves Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 22-01-2026

Tonight’s regular-season matchup on January 22nd, 2026, pits the Chicago Bulls (21-22) against the formidable Minnesota Timberwolves (27-17) at 8:00 PM EST in the Target Center, Minneapolis. This clash presents an intriguing narrative: an injury-riddled Bulls squad fighting for playoff positioning against a dominant Timberwolves team looking to solidify its top-tier status in the Western Conference.

Chicago Bulls vs Minnesota Timberwolves Matchup Preview

Chicago Bulls Key Stats & Trends

The Chicago Bulls arrive in Minnesota with a sub-.500 record, largely influenced by a wave of injuries. Despite these setbacks, the team continues to rely heavily on its veteran core. Nikola Vucevic remains the focal point, leading the team with 17.0 points and an impressive 9.1 rebounds per game, anchoring their interior presence. His all-around contributions, reflected in his rating of 17.0 PPG, 9.1 RPG, 3.8 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.6 BPG, are critical for Chicago’s offense. Playmaking duties fall primarily to Tre Jones, who averages 5.8 assists, trying to orchestrate an offense often short on consistent scoring threats beyond Vucevic and Coby White. The Bulls’ recent form has been inconsistent, struggling to maintain defensive intensity and offensive rhythm without key rotational pieces.

Injury Report Chicago Bulls

• Patrick Williams (Out): Williams is questionable for Thursday’s game against Minnesota due to a right ankle sprain.
• Josh Giddey (Out): Giddey (hamstring) is questionable for Thursday’s game against the Timberwolves.
• Zach Collins (Out): Head coach Billy Donovan said he doesn’t think Collins (toe) will return before the All-Star break, which begins Feb. 13, K.C. Johnson of Chicago Sports Network reports.
• Noa Essengue (Out): Essengue will undergo left shoulder surgery and will miss the remainder of the 2025-26 season, K.C. Johnson of Chicago Sports Network reports.

Minnesota Timberwolves Key Stats & Trends

The Minnesota Timberwolves, sitting comfortably with a 27-17 record, are a force to be reckoned with, particularly at home. Their success is largely attributed to the dynamic duo of Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert. Anthony Edwards is the undisputed offensive leader, averaging a stellar 29.9 points per game, complemented by 5.0 rebounds and 3.7 assists, showcasing his elite two-way potential (1.3 SPG, 0.8 BPG). Defensively, Rudy Gobert is the anchor, dominating the boards with 11.4 rebounds per contest and providing elite rim protection. Julius Randle has been a valuable addition, contributing 5.4 assists, facilitating the offense and adding another dimension to their scoring. The Timberwolves play with high intensity on both ends, making them a tough matchup for any team, especially with their home crowd behind them.

Injury Report Minnesota Timberwolves

• Terrence Shannon Jr. (Out): Shannon (foot) has been ruled out for Tuesday’s game against the Jazz.

Chicago Bulls vs Minnesota Timberwolves Prediction & Best Bet

Considering the significant injury woes plaguing the Chicago Bulls and the Minnesota Timberwolves’ strong home record and elite talent, the initial instinct might be a blowout. However, NBA spreads can be deceptive. While the Timberwolves are favored, the Bulls, even with their depleted roster, still possess veteran talent in Vucevic and the scoring prowess of Coby White. The spread of +9.5 for the Bulls offers value. Despite their struggles, Chicago often finds a way to keep games competitive enough to cover larger spreads, especially if the Timberwolves experience a slight dip in focus against an underdog. Expect the Bulls to fight hard and potentially keep this within single digits. For the total points line of 238.5, we anticipate a high-scoring affair. Edwards’ offensive explosion, coupled with the Bulls’ defensive challenges due to injuries, should lead to plenty of scoring opportunities. The Timberwolves are capable of pushing the pace, and the Bulls will need to respond offensively to stay in the game. Therefore, our pick is over.