Timberwolves vs. Thunder Prediction: Game 1 of Western Conference Finals

The Minnesota Timberwolves and Oklahoma City Thunder will meet for Game 1 of the Western Conference finals at 8:30 p.m. ET on Tuesday at the Paycom Center on ESPN.

Despite not having the rest advantage, the Thunder are solid favorites over the Wolves in the series opener. Oklahoma City completed a seven-game series on Sunday, while Minnesota has been off since Wednesday.

The Thunder are -350 favorites to reach the NBA Finals.

Here’s a look at the latest NBA odds for the Timberwolves vs. Thunder and my prediction ahead of Tuesday’s Game 1:

Timberwolves vs. Thunder Odds: Game 1

• Timberwolves spread: +7.5
• Thunder spread: -7.5
• Total: 215.5

Timberwolves vs. Thunder Prediction: Game 1 Best Bet

Based on the updated NBA betting lines, I‘m taking the over on Jalen Williams’ assist prop (4.5) as my best bet for Game 1 of the Western Conference finals between the Timberwolves and the Thunder.

Oklahoma City’s title hopes this year depend on Williams taking the next step in the playoffs. So far this postseason, he’s done that by averaging 19.6 points, 5.7 assists, and 5.4 rebounds per game.

Williams has cleared this assist prop in nine of 11 playoff games this year. He’s dished 17 dimes over the past two outings.

I expect Anthony Edwards to start by defending Williams, so the Oklahoma City forward might look to get his teammates involved in Game 1.

While it’s a quick turnaround for Oklahoma City, there is a chance that Minnesota is a bit rusty. This is a step up in competition for the Wolves, who haven’t had to work too hard through two rounds against the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors.

Oklahoma City should set the tone on Tuesday, but Williams’ assist prop is my preferred angle at -140 or better.

Game 1 prediction: Jalen Williams over 4.5 assists (-130)

Timberwolves vs. Thunder Series Schedule

When Was the Last Time the Timberwolves Reached the NBA Finals?

The Timberwolves have never been to the NBA Finals since becoming a franchise in 1989.

When Was the Last Time the Thunder Reached the NBA Finals?

The Thunder haven’t reached the NBA Finals since 2012, when they lost to the Miami Heat in five games. They haven’t won a title since moving to Oklahoma City in 2009.