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Cavaliers vs. Timberwolves prediction: Minnesota to win, Anthony Edwards projected for big game in Thursday's NBA matchup [1/8/2026]
Updated: | First published:
Written by Dave Garofolo, Content Producer
Get Cleveland Cavaliers vs Minnesota Timberwolves predictions for NBA Thursday.
The Minnesota Timberwolves and Cleveland Cavaliers are scheduled to meet in NBA action at Target Center on Thursday, with tipoff at 8:00 PM ET.
Based on the latest simulation results and today’s injury news, Dimers' proven NBA model predicts the Timberwolves as the most likely winner of the Cavaliers vs. Timberwolves game.
This prediction follows the latest NBA Injury Report, which suggests the Timberwolves lineup will feature players like Anthony Edwards, Julius Randle and Jaden McDaniels, while the Cavaliers will rely on Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland and Evan Mobley.
This article offers an expanded analysis of Thursday's matchup, including an expanded look at the predicted score, best bets and player prop picks.
Cavs vs. Wolves prediction: Who will win and cover?
Using innovative machine learning and data analysis, we have simulated the outcome of Thursday's NBA matchup between the Cavaliers and Timberwolves 10,000 times as part of our NBA predictions coverage.
Our leading predictive model currently gives the Timberwolves a 60% chance of beating the Cavaliers. Our predicted final score has the Timberwolves winning 120-117.
According to our model, the Timberwolves (-3.5) have a 51% chance of covering the spread, while the over/under total of 239.5 points has a 54% chance of staying under.
Cavaliers vs. Timberwolves odds
We have researched the best NBA odds in America for this game, which are listed here:
| Bet Type | Cavaliers | Timberwolves |
|---|---|---|
| Spread | +3.5 (-115) | -3.5 (-105) |
| Moneyline | +130 | -145 |
| Total | o239.5 (-110) | u239.5 (-106) |
All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.
Cavaliers vs. Timberwolves picks and best bet
After matching our probabilities against the best current odds, we can reveal our picks for each of the major markets. Plus, find our best bet for the game below:
| Bet Type | Pick | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Timberwolves -3.5 | -105 |
| Moneyline | Timberwolves | -145 |
| Total | Under 239.5 | -106 |
According to our best NBA bets for Thursday, the top play to make on this game is Under 239.5 total points.
Cavaliers vs. Timberwolves player props
NBA prop bets are an exciting way to wager on the Cavaliers vs. Timberwolves matchup without necessarily betting on the outcome. We have crunched the numbers to project how each team's leading players will perform at Target Center.
Donovan Mitchell is expected to lead the Cavaliers with 27 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists, while Anthony Edwards is projected to have 29 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for the Timberwolves.
Check out our NBA player projections for a full range of projected box scores, including points, assists, rebounds and today's NBA first basket picks.
Cavaliers prediction
Our model's projected player stats for the Cavaliers are:
| Player | PTS | REB | AST | 3PM | DFS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| D. Mitchell | 27 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 47 |
| Darius Garland | 19 | 3 | 7 | 2 | 37 |
| Evan Mobley | 18 | 8 | 4 | 2 | 41 |
| Jarrett Allen | 13 | 8 | 2 | 0 | 31 |
| De'Andre Hunter | 12 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 23 |
Timberwolves prediction
Projected points, rebounds, assists and three-pointers made for the Timberwolves:
| Player | PTS | REB | AST | 3PM | DFS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anthony Edwards | 29 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 50 |
| Julius Randle | 22 | 7 | 6 | 2 | 45 |
| Jaden McDaniels | 16 | 5 | 3 | 1 | 32 |
| D. DiVincenzo | 13 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 30 |
| Naz Reid | 13 | 6 | 2 | 3 | 29 |
Cavs vs. Wolves game-day updates and essential details
Thursday's action between the Timberwolves and Cavaliers at Target Center is scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM ET.
- Who: Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
- Date: Thursday, January 8, 2026
- Time: 8:00 PM ET/5:00PM PT
- Venue: Target Center
Conclusion
We predict the Timberwolves, with a 60% win probability, will likely beat the Cavaliers on Thursday, with Anthony Edwards projected for a game-high 50 fantasy points.
AI and automation have enhanced this article to quickly deliver accurate Cavaliers vs. Timberwolves insights, with human oversight ensuring high editorial quality. Our predictions are drawn from up-to-date data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice on responsible gambling, please call 1-800-GAMBLER.
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Dave Garofolo uses sophisticated AI-driven analytics to make predictions and evaluate player performances in the NBA, MLB, NFL, NHL, NCAAM, and PGA TOUR tournaments, crafting insightful game and prop previews.
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