However, whenever assessing James, one must also account for the star power.<\/p>\n
This comes on the heels of Los Angeles\u2019 impressive 110-97 win over the New York Knicks<\/a> on Sunday. The Lakers are now 9-2 this season when James sits but Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves play.\u00a0<\/p>\n The Lakers host the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday as 1.5-point underdogs with a total of 233.5 points. <\/p>\n James is expected to return from elbow and foot soreness, but that will likely be a game-time decision<\/a>.<\/p>\n Minnesota also makes things interesting, but for separate reasons. The Timberwolves\u2019 upside is their ability to beat any team on any given night. <\/p>\n However, they have eight losses against teams currently below .500, which is tied for the second-most among the 12 current playoff teams<\/a>.<\/p>\n The T\u2019wolves have also lost nine times this year as a favorite of at least 7.5 points. Overall, they are 27-37 against the spread (ATS), which ranks third-worst in the NBA. <\/p>\n They have certainly been a headache for handicappers.<\/p>\n Thus, I can only cautiously back Minnesota, but I will still brave the situation. The T\u2019wolves are coming off yet another disappointing loss and I believe this matchup will have their attention.\u00a0<\/p>\n Betting on the NBA? <\/p>\n Plus, I am not convinced the Lakers have become an elite defense.<\/p>\n They deserve credit for an inspired win over the Knicks, but New York missed several open 3-pointers and might have just fallen victim to the ebbs and flows of a road trip.<\/p>\n![\"Minnesota](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/minnesota-timberwolves-guard-anthony-edwards-123021381.jpg\")
Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards reacts after missing a shot during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Orlando Magic, Saturday, March 7, 2026. AP<\/p>\n