Game Preview
The high-flying Boston Celtics are riding a four-game winning streak and boast an impressive 13-3 record on the season, winning at a blistering 81.3 percent clip. Their well-oiled offensive machine is averaging a robust 120.7 points per game, fueled by sizzling shooting percentages hovering around 46 percent from the field and 37 percent from beyond the arc.
Over their last five outings, the Celtics have been even more dominant, winning four of five while pouring in 121.8 points on nearly 49 percent shooting. Their balanced attack is humming with 29.4 assists per game, complemented by a stifling defense that has limited opponents to just 113.4 points while grabbing 41.2 rebounds and swatting 5.6 blocks.
Meanwhile, the Minnesota Timberwolves have struggled to find consistency, sporting an 8-7 record and coming off a 116.2 point loss in their last outing. While their season numbers are solid with 113.3 points per game on 47.3 percent shooting, the last five games have seen a dip in scoring (112.2 points) and field goal percentage (46.3 percent).
Defensively, the Timberwolves have been active with 10.8 steals over their previous five contests, but they've struggled to contain opponents, allowing 116.2 points while being outrebounded 37.2 to 40.6. As they look to snap out of their recent funk, they'll need to tighten up on the boards and get back to their stingy ways on the defensive end.