2. Pace Of Play
In a single game elimination, such as the NBA Play-In Tournament, whichever team can exert their will upon the other will likely come out on top. Execution will be key and in this matchup, there are two drastically different styles matching up.
The Minnesota Timberwolves play the fastest style of basketball in the league, leading the NBA in pace. The LA Clippers are much more deliberate in their pace, as they are 17th in the league, averaging nearly three possessions fewer per game.
Which pace will we see on Tuesday night? Will Minnesota be able to speed LA up, getting them into a high-tempo affair? Or will the Clippers be able to slow the game down, forcing the Timberwolves into more of a half-court game where their advantage in the athleticism department will not be as pronounced?
The Clippers are the better defensive team, as they have a rating of 110.1 compared to 111.7 for the Timberwolves. However, Minnesota holds the advantage offensively with a rating of 114.3, which was 8th in the NBA, compared to the Clippers, who were 23rd with a 110.3.
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The pace of play will be a huge factor in this game. LA had a neutral rating this season, finishing 18th, while Minnesota was 10th at +2.6. If the game is fast, the Minnesota Timberwolves have an edge. If it slows down, the LA Clippers even the playing field.
