New York Knicks vs Minnesota Timberwolves 12 October 2026 Prediction

New York vs Minnesota brings together two teams preparing for the regular season. Minnesota, a regular playoff contender, visits the reigning champion. With the season approaching, Jalen Brunson and Anthony Edwards are working their way into form.

New York Is Still Winless in the Preseason

New York lost 120-97 to a revamped Philadelphia team, then fell 111-109 to Washington after taking a five-point lead into the fourth quarter. It is still early: the Knicks’ key players have logged around 20 minutes per game. That has been enough time for Brunson to score 12 and 13 points in the two games while shooting efficiently.

New York Predicted Lineup: Brunson, Hart, Bridges, Anunoby, Towns

Unavailable: None listed

Manager: Mike Brown

Minnesota Manages Its Key Players’ Minutes

Edwards and Ball returned against Indiana and combined for 33 points, though Minnesota lost 123-112. Both rested against Miami, and the Timberwolves won 125-124 without them. Miami had the better numbers in several areas, but Minnesota performed better in the decisive stretches. The Timberwolves have kept their core intact while making targeted additions this offseason. They have played well in recent postseasons, with Edwards leading the team. His scoring average has risen across six seasons to 28.8 points per game.

Minnesota Predicted Lineup: Ball, Edwards, Kuminga, McDaniels, Gobert

Unavailable: DiVincenzo (injury)

Manager: Chris Finch

Recent Head-to-Head Results

The teams have split their regular-season meetings over the past two years. Each won at home last season.

New York vs Minnesota Prediction: New York to Win

Main pick: New York lost its first home preseason game to Washington and has a chance to respond. Minnesota has focused on building chemistry rather than results and will play its fourth straight road game. The Knicks have won four of their last five home meetings with the Timberwolves. The pick is New York to win.

Total points pick: Both New York preseason games have totaled 220 points or fewer. The Knicks allowed 110.1 points per game last regular season, a top-five defensive mark. Minnesota has little reason to push the pace, either. The pick is under 223.5 total points.