The NBA bet of the night fell short by one field goal, as the over called for 225.5 points and the game ended with 223 points. Jalen Brunson attempted two threes within the last minute of the game, but neither found their way in the basket. Although those field goals were not successful, Brunson scored 36 points which easily covered the over 29.5 point best bet mentioned yesterday.

The Knicks came out hot and in a good rhythm just as we predicted. With a -2.5 point spread it was suggested to put a double unit on the moneyline which was juiced to -190 or -200 on the book. Just as we thought the moneyline was too much, as the Knicks outscored the Pacers 26 to 24 securing the double unit and ensuring a profit. Three of the units wagered were successful which brought a  profit of +0.87, and two successful wagers means Meatloaf is back on the menu!

 

 

 

NBA Picks, Predictions & Best Bets Today, 5/24

The state of Minnesota gets ready for their second consecutive season of Western Conference Finals. All three NBA best bets today will come from this match in the “Land of Lakes”.

 

Thunder vs Timberwolves Prediction: Total Under 215.5 Points (+115 on Bet365 Sportsbook) *BET OF THE NIGHT 

The Minnesota Timberwolves host the Oklahoma City Thunder at the Target Center in what is a critical game for the home team. The Thunder have dominated this series and breezed their way to two easy victories at the Paycom Center. Now they are on the road, and their offense will take a hit in their first road game in a week.

Minnesota will want to control the pace of the game, instead of attempting to play at the Thunder’s preferred pace of quick action. They will look to control defensive rebounds, and play a half court offensive game. That will contribute to a lower score from both teams, something the Timberwolves must do to extend this series.

The Timberwolves have also won four of five home playoff games, with a better defensive effort. Role players usually play better at home, and that is true for Rudy Gobert and Jaden McDaniels’ defense. Look for them to eliminate second chance opportunities and contest several of the Thunder’s field goal attempts.

The Timberwolves 29-17 record at home this season speaks for itself, and their defense is what got them to the Conference Finals. Look for them to find that defense in game three, and keep this a low pace, low scoring game. Put a unit on this teased down best bet at Bet365 and for new customers, remember to take advantage of the promotional offer at the end of this article. 

 

 

 

Thunder vs Timberwolves Prediction: Minnesota Moneyline 1st Quarter (-105 at BetMGM Sportsbook) 

Minnesota must not get behind early if they hope to win game three. As was evident in game two a slow start is almost a guarantee to lose as the Thunder are one of the best second half defensive teams in the Association. Oklahoma City has displayed the value of their deep bench in all three series of the 2025 playoffs.

They won the first quarter of game one, but the big difference in game three will be having the home crowd at their advantage. The Target Center crowd will need to earn the undocumented assist by being loud and bringing energy to a team down 0-2 in the series. As mentioned the Timberwolves have won 29 games at home this season, and must win number thirty if they are going to extend their season.

Julius Randle will have a bounce-back game because great players do not have two bad playoff games in a row. He was public about how bad he played, and his playoff statistics indicate he should bounce back to 20 or more points at home.

Rudy Gobert has better statistics at home, including his 17-point performance on eight of nine field goal attempts in their most recent home playoff game. Expect everyone not named Anthony Edwards to play much better on their homecourt, look for Edwards to improve his assists and get his team involved early. Attempting 26 field goals was not the answer, and compounded by him making only one three despite nine attempts.

Put a unit on this NBA best bet today at BetMGM Sportsbook, and for new customers make sure to take advantage of Fantasy Alarm’s promotional offer for up to $1,500 in bonus bets.

 

 

 

Best NBA Prop Bets & Other Picks Today, 5/24

The last NBA best bet today just so happens to be a double unit wager on a player proposition that will be difficult to find away from this Fantasy Alarm column.

 

Thunder vs Timberwolves Prediction: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Under 31.5 Points (-104 on FanDuel Sportsbook) *2.0U

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the 2025 NBA regular season MVP. He could end up with the first “triple crown” in the NBA. That is regular season MVP, Western Conference Finals MVP (inception in 2022), and the Finals MVP. Nikola Jokic, Stephen Curry, and Jaylen Brown have won two of the three, but no one has won three in the same season.

Now the MVP has to play on the road against a desperate team. Gilgeous-Alexander attempted a Conference Finals leading 29 free throw attempts in two games. Which is way too many despite most of the NBA media arguing every point they can that he is not a free throw merchant. They claim he does not bait fouls, but the data states otherwise.

Some may call it smart, and the proof is in the fact that his free throw points helped him win the MVP award. Does he get that same call away from home? Does he get those calls with a large percentage of opposing coaches and the majority of fans stating it is not entertaining to watch? Will the referees continue to give the Thunder a friendly whistle when they are up 2 - 0 in the series? 

The answer for all the above will come from the game, but once Gilgeous-Alexander’s free throws are removed, his point total is nowhere near the projected point line. He is not Pascal Siakam who can get 39 points and still clear 32 without his free throws. Gilgeous-Alexander is very much dependent on the free throw line for production, and that paired with tough home defense will cause his point production to dip.

Put two units on this player proposition best bet at FanDuel, and enjoy the near-even odds. For those new to the sports betting app, make sure to take advantage of Fantasy Alarm’s promotional offer below.

 

 

 

Get $150 in Bonus Bets Today At Bet365 Sportsbook When You Sign Up

Ready to jump into the action? New users can score a fantastic deal with Bet365 Sportsbook without even needing a Bet365 promo code. Sign up today, place a $5 wager, and instantly receive $150 in bonus bets—win or lose! It’s one of the best offers out there, giving you extra firepower to follow our NBA picks today.

Whether you’re fading or following our NBA best bets today, this promo reduces the risk and boosts your potential payout. Head to Bet365 now to claim your $150 in bonus bets and get in on the NBA excitement! With these NBA predictions and options in hand, you’re set for a profitable night.

Bet Smart, Be Lucky - Iggy

*All NBA odds accurate at time of writing and NBA best bets today to be placed at 1 unit unless specified otherwise