Victor Wembanyama delivered an all-time defensive performance in Game 1 of the second round, setting an NBA record with 11 blocks. But even that historic effort wasn't enough to lift the San Antonio Spurs past the Minnesota Timberwolves in what turned out to be a defensive slugfest.
The matchup between two of the league's elite defensive teams lived up to the billing. While Wembanyama was a force on defense, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year was held to just 11 points on the offensive end—a reminder that even generational talents need help from their teammates to win in the playoffs.
Over in the Eastern Conference, the New York Knicks are riding a wave of momentum. After falling behind 2-1 to the Atlanta Hawks in the first round, they've rattled off four straight wins and finally look like the title contenders many expected them to be. Tonight, they'll look to take a 2-0 lead at home against the Philadelphia 76ers.
If you're looking to get in on the action, here are tonight's TST Best Bets:
First Pick: San Antonio Spurs -10 over Minnesota Timberwolves
The key to this series might be Wembanyama's three-point shooting. Guarded by Rudy Gobert—the four-time Defensive Player of the Year who just locked up Nikola Jokic in the first round—Wemby's ability to pull Gobert away from the paint is crucial for the Spurs' offense. In Game 1, the Frenchman went 0-for-8 from beyond the arc. Expect positive regression in Game 2, which should open things up for both Wembanyama and his supporting cast.
On the Timberwolves' side, Anthony Edwards' return from injury in Game 1 was a pleasant surprise, but his effectiveness remains a question mark. Edwards managed just 18 points, and his trademark burst—the explosive first step that makes him such a dangerous driver—seems to be missing. If Edwards struggles again and the Spurs shoot closer to their average from deep, San Antonio should cruise to a decisive victory, sending the series back to Minnesota tied 1-1.
Second Pick: New York Knicks -10.5 over Philadelphia 76ers
The Knicks are clicking at the right time, and with home-court advantage, they have a golden opportunity to take a commanding 2-0 series lead. Josh Hart continues to provide energy and playmaking, and the Knicks' depth has been a difference-maker in these playoffs.