Minnesota Timberwolves vs Washington-wizards Picks and Predictions February 1st 2025

Timberwolves Seek Sixth Straight Win, Wizards Desperate to Avoid Record-Breaking Loss

The Minnesota Timberwolves are red-hot, riding a five-game winning streak, and will look to keep their momentum going when they host the Washington Wizards on Saturday in Minneapolis.

Meanwhile, Washington has lost 16 straight games, tying a franchise-worst losing streak and one loss away from making unwanted history.

Minnesota, finally finding its groove after a sluggish start, has seen Anthony Edwards take charge, while the Wizards are still searching for answers in a season that has been nothing short of a nightmare.

Minnesota: Back to Contender Status?

The Timberwolves (28-20) are starting to resemble the team that made a deep playoff run last season. After an inconsistent start following the Karl-Anthony Towns trade, the Wolves seem to have figured things out, thanks to the leadership of Anthony Edwards.

Minnesota is coming off a dominant 138-113 road win over Utah, where Edwards exploded for 36 points, 11 assists, six rebounds, and three blocks.

“I thought he was outstanding,” Wolves coach Chris Finch said after the game. “His approach, his energy—he set the tone.”

Julius Randle’s Absence

The Wolves will be without Julius Randle (groin injury), but their depth has stepped up in his absence.

• Donte DiVincenzo has provided steady contributions on both ends.
• Naz Reid and Rudy Gobert continue to anchor the paint.
• The team has rediscovered its defensive intensity, a key to last year’s success.

With a balanced offense and a re-committed defense, the Timberwolves are looking dangerous again.

Washington Wizards: Spiraling Toward History

The Wizards (6-41) are in crisis mode. Their 16-game losing streak has already tied a franchise record, and one more loss would make it the longest in team history.

Washington was embarrassed at home in a 134-96 loss to the Lakers on Thursday.

“We’re not hiding from the disappointment,” Wizards coach Brian Keefe said. “I believe in this group, but we have to be better.”

Offensive Woes Plague the Wizards

The Wizards’ offense has collapsed, scoring under 100 points in four of their last six games.

• Jordan Poole (16.2 PPG) continues to struggle with efficiency.
• The team shot just 22.7% (10-for-44) from three against the Lakers.
• Rookie center Alex Sarr (No. 2 overall pick) remains out with an ankle sprain.

The Wizards’ biggest issue? Opponents aren’t even guarding them tightly on the perimeter, daring them to shoot.

“A lot of people are just sitting on our shots,” Poole admitted.

If Washington doesn’t find a way to generate offense, their losing streak will hit 17 games—setting a new franchise low.

Key Matchups to Watch

Anthony Edwards vs. Wizards’ Perimeter Defense

• Edwards has been on fire and torched Utah for 36 points.
• The Wizards have been one of the worst defensive teams in the league.
• Expect Edwards to attack aggressively and take advantage of Washington’s weak defense.

Minnesota’s Depth vs. Washington’s Inconsistency

• Even with Julius Randle out, Minnesota has key contributors stepping up.
• Washington struggles to find a consistent second scoring option behind Poole.
• If Minnesota’s supporting cast produces, this game could get out of hand quickly.

Can the Wizards Avoid History?

• The pressure is on Washington—a 17th straight loss would set a franchise record.
• Will this be a motivating factor, or will they continue their downward spiral?

Prediction: Timberwolves Stay Hot, Wizards Make History

Minnesota is too talented, too confident, and too locked in defensively to let Washington hang around.

The Wizards look broken, and it’s hard to see them pulling off a road upset against a surging team.

Expect Anthony Edwards to put on a show, and Minnesota to send Washington into the history books for all the wrong reasons.

Final Score Prediction: Timberwolves 127, Wizards 101

Dive into the Latest NBA Western Conference Betting Odds and Detailed Expert Predictions for the Season

Final Thoughts

The Timberwolves have a golden opportunity to continue their climb in the West, while the Wizards desperately need something positive.

Will Minnesota dominate again, or can Washington finally snap their historic skid?

We’ll find out Saturday night.