Orlando Magic vs Minnesota Timberwolves 23 October 2026 Prediction

Orlando opened the season with a 132-125 home loss to Atlanta, allowing points throughout the game. Minnesota presents another test after beating Miami 131-106 behind 45 points from Anthony Edwards. Can Orlando’s defense contain Edwards and LaMelo Ball?

Orlando Struggled Defensively in Its Opener

The loss to Atlanta exposed Orlando’s defensive problems. Despite Jamahl Mosley’s departure, the Magic continued to play at a fast pace. It worked on offense: Paolo Banchero had 35 points and 10 assists while missing only two shots from the field.

Atlanta had little trouble scoring at the other end. Black’s injury leaves Orlando without a reliable perimeter defender off the bench. The Magic allowed 44 points in the second quarter, when several of their regular defenders were resting.

Orlando Predicted Lineup: Suggs, Bane, Wagner, Banchero, Carter Jr.

Out: Nelson and Penda (both injured)

Manager: Sean Sweeney

Minnesota Dominated Miami

The Timberwolves won their road opener against Miami 131-106. Edwards scored 45 points and made nine three-pointers, one more than the entire Heat team made on 33 attempts. After the game, he said an exchange with a Miami reserve had given him extra motivation.

“He was talking crazy from the bench. When I started talking back, he didn’t have much to say. I don’t like that at all. I think that’s why I was so fired up today,” Edwards said.

The Miami game also showed what Ball adds to Minnesota’s offense. In previous seasons, opponents could double-team Edwards without worrying as much about a point guard who could move the ball quickly and shoot. Ball gives the Timberwolves another player who can stretch the floor and create his own shot.

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

Out: DiVincenzo (injured)

Manager: Chris Finch

Orlando Won Both Meetings in 2025-26

Orlando beat Minnesota twice in last season’s regular season, 119-92 and 132-120.

Orlando Magic vs Minnesota Timberwolves Prediction: Minnesota Timberwolves Handicap -1.5

Main pick: Orlando scored 125 points in its opener but gave up 132. Minnesota, meanwhile, combined effective three-point shooting with strong play inside against Miami. Ball and Edwards should find opportunities against the Magic’s defense. The pick is Minnesota Timberwolves -1.5 at 1.90.

Team total pick: Both teams played at a fast pace in their openers. Orlando allowed Atlanta to score inside and from the perimeter, while Ball gives Minnesota another offensive option. The additional pick is Minnesota Timberwolves team total over 119.5 at 1.90.