Golden State Warriors vs Minnesota Timberwolves Prediction | 01.26.26
Golden State Warriors
Minnesota Timberwolves
Game Spread
Total Points
Tale of the Tape
Detailed Analysis
Golden State Warriors vs Minnesota Timberwolves Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 26-01-2026
The Western Conference heats up as the Golden State Warriors (26-21) travel to Target Center to face the Minnesota Timberwolves (27-19) on January 26, 2026, at 9:30 PM EST. This regular-season clash pits two playoff contenders against each other, with significant implications for conference standings and momentum. Expect a high-stakes battle as both teams aim to solidify their position.
Golden State Warriors vs Minnesota Timberwolves Matchup Preview
Golden State Warriors Key Stats & Trends
The Golden State Warriors continue to lean heavily on the brilliance of Stephen Curry, who leads the team with an impressive 27.4 points per game. Curry’s overall rating of 27.4 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 4.9 APG, 1.1 SPG, and 0.4 BPG underscores his indispensable role as the primary offensive engine. However, the team’s recent performance has been inconsistent, largely due to a string of critical injuries. Draymond Green remains the team’s defensive anchor and primary facilitator, averaging 5.8 rebounds and 5.2 assists per game, showcasing his vital all-around impact. The Warriors’ strength lies in their veteran leadership and offensive potential, but their depth is currently being tested.
Injury Report Golden State Warriors
- Jonathan Kuminga (Out): Kuminga has been diagnosed with a bone bruise in his left knee. A re-evaluation date is pending.
- Seth Curry (Out): Curry (sciatic nerve) is sidelined for this matchup.
- Jimmy Butler III (Out): Butler sustained a torn right ACL and will miss the remainder of the season.
Minnesota Timberwolves Key Stats & Trends
The Minnesota Timberwolves enter this game with a slightly better record, fueled by the explosive scoring of Anthony Edwards. Edwards is a dominant force, averaging a stellar 29.6 points per game, complemented by a robust rating of 29.6 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.3 SPG, and 0.8 BPG. His ability to take over games offensively makes him a constant threat. Defensively, Rudy Gobert anchors the paint, leading the team with 11.3 rebounds per game, providing crucial interior presence. Julius Randle adds another dimension with his playmaking, dishing out 5.4 assists per game. The Timberwolves’ combination of elite scoring and strong defense makes them a formidable opponent, especially at home.
Injury Report Minnesota Timberwolves
- Terrence Shannon Jr. (Out): Shannon (foot) has been ruled out for this game.
Golden State Warriors vs Minnesota Timberwolves Prediction & Best Bet
This matchup presents a clear challenge for the Warriors, who are significantly hampered by injuries to key rotational players like Kuminga and Seth Curry, and especially the season-ending loss of Jimmy Butler III. While Stephen Curry remains an elite scorer, the supporting cast’s ability to consistently contribute will be tested against a robust Timberwolves defense featuring Rudy Gobert. Minnesota, with Anthony Edwards leading their potent offense and a strong home-court advantage, is poised to capitalize on Golden State’s depleted roster.
However, the spread of +7.5 for the Golden State Warriors offers intriguing value. Despite their injuries, Stephen Curry’s ability to keep games competitive, coupled with Draymond Green’s leadership, often allows the Warriors to outperform expectations against the spread. The Timberwolves will likely win, but covering a 7.5-point spread against a Curry-led team, even a short-handed one, is no small feat.
Considering the Warriors’ offensive challenges without key contributors and the Timberwolves’ defensive prowess, especially in the paint, we anticipate a lower-scoring affair. The total points line of 232.5 feels a bit high given the circumstances.
Prediction: Golden State Warriors +7.5 (Spread)
Total Points: under 232.5
Last 5 Games: GS
| Opponent | Result | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| @ Minnesota | W 111-85 | Curry 26 | Moody 8 | Curry 7 |
| @ Dallas | L 123-115 | Curry 38 | Horford 8 | Podziemski 10 |
| vs Toronto | L 145-127 | Hield 25 | Post 7 | Spencer 5 |
| vs Miami | W 135-112 | Podziemski 24 | Post 9 | Curry 11 |
| vs Charlotte | W 136-116 | Melton 24 | Post 7 | Podziemski 7 |
Last 5 Games: MIN
| Opponent | Result | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| vs Golden State | L 111-85 | Edwards 32 | Edwards 11 | Randle 6 |
| vs Chicago | L 120-115 | Randle 30 | Gobert 11 | Randle 6 |
| @ Utah | L 127-122 | Edwards 38 | Gobert 10 | DiVincenzo 8 |
| @ San Antonio | L 126-123 | Edwards 55 | Randle 10 | McDaniels 5 |
| @ Houston | L 110-105 | Randle 39 | Gobert 13 | Hyland 5 |
Written by Matt Dorsey
Matt Dorsey turned his obsession with sports into a career five years ago, and he hasn't looked back. By combining a fan's passion with a veteran’s analytical eye, Matt provides reliable insights for the NBA, NHL, and NFL. He knows you’re looking for more than just a pick; you’re looking for a reason to trust the play. That’s why his work is always transparent, researched, and rooted in five years of proven results.