Minnesota Timberwolves vs LA Clippers Prediction, Odds & Picks | 02.26.26
Minnesota Timberwolves
LA Clippers
Game Winner
Total Points
Tale of the Tape
Key Matchup: Top Scorers
A. Edwards
K. Leonard
Detailed Analysis
Minnesota Timberwolves vs LA Clippers Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 02.26.26
The Western Conference playoff race intensifies as the Minnesota Timberwolves (36-23) travel to the Intuit Dome to face the LA Clippers (27-30) on February 26, 2026. While Minnesota looks to solidify a top-four seed, the Clippers are battling significant roster attrition in their quest to stay relevant in the postseason hunt.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs LA Clippers Matchup Preview
Minnesota Timberwolves Key Stats & Trends
The Timberwolves have emerged as a powerhouse, driven by the elite scoring of Anthony Edwards, who is averaging a staggering 29.5 PPG. Minnesota’s identity remains rooted in their interior dominance; Rudy Gobert continues to anchor the defense with 11.3 RPG, while Julius Randle has seamlessly integrated into the flow, leading the team with 5.3 APG. Their ability to switch defensively and punish teams in transition makes them a nightmare matchup for a shorthanded Clippers rotation.
- Points: Anthony Edwards (29.5)
- Rebounds: Rudy Gobert (11.3)
- Assists: Julius Randle (5.3)
- Rating: Anthony Edwards (29.5 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.8 BPG)
LA Clippers Key Stats & Trends
The Clippers’ season is currently at a crossroads due to a mounting injury list. Kawhi Leonard remains the focal point, producing 28.0 PPG and 6.4 RPG with trademark efficiency. However, the lack of secondary playmaking is evident. With several key ball-handlers sidelined, the offensive burden on Leonard has reached a breaking point, often leading to stagnant possessions late in games.
- Points: Kawhi Leonard (28.0)
- Rebounds: Kawhi Leonard (6.4)
- Assists: Kawhi Leonard (3.7)
- Rating: Kawhi Leonard (28.0 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 3.7 APG, 2.0 SPG, 0.5 BPG)
Injury Report LA Clippers
- John Collins (Day-to-day): Collins (head/neck) is questionable for Thursday’s game versus the Timberwolves.
- Kawhi Leonard (Day-to-day): Leonard is listed as questionable for Thursday’s game due to left ankle soreness.
- Darius Garland (Out): Garland (toe) participated in a 5-on-5 scrimmage Wednesday but remains out.
- Bradley Beal (Out): Beal will undergo season-ending surgery on his left hip.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs LA Clippers Prediction & Best Bet
Given the Clippers’ decimated backcourt and the uncertainty surrounding Leonard’s ankle, the Minnesota Timberwolves are the clear favorites to secure a road victory. Minnesota’s depth and Edwards’ ability to exploit a weakened perimeter defense provide a significant edge. Regarding the total, we are leaning over the 226.5 line. Minnesota’s offensive efficiency has spiked recently, and the Clippers’ defensive rotations will likely struggle to contain the Randle-Gobert frontcourt, leading to high-percentage looks and a fast-paced shootout.
Last 5 Games: MIN
| Opponent | Result | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| @ Portland | W 124-121 | Edwards 34 | Gobert 19 | Randle 6 |
| vs Philadelphia | L 135-108 | Edwards 28 | Edwards 9 | Dosunmu 4 |
| vs Dallas | W 122-111 | Edwards 40 | Gobert 17 | DiVincenzo 9 |
| vs Portland | W 133-109 | Randle 41 | Gobert 8 | McDaniels 6 |
| vs Atlanta | W 138-116 | Edwards 30 | Randle 12 | Randle 10 |
Last 5 Games: LAC
| Opponent | Result | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| vs Orlando | L 111-109 | Leonard 37 | Mathurin 9 | Mathurin 5 |
| @ Los Angeles | L 125-122 | Leonard 31 | Lopez 10 | Dunn 8 |
| vs Denver | W 115-114 | Mathurin 38 | Collins 12 | Dunn 8 |
| @ Houston | W 105-102 | Leonard 27 | Leonard 12 | Dunn 6 |
| @ Houston | L 102-95 | Leonard 24 | Leonard 8 | Dunn 7 |
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.