The Atlanta Hawks and Minnesota Timberwolves are linked during the 2017-2018 season, as the Hawks own Minnesota’s upcoming first round pick should the Wolves reach the playoffs. With a 32-20 start from Tom Thibodeau’s team, that pick appears (very) likely to convey but, for the first time during the campaign, the Hawks and Wolves will take the same floor on Monday evening.

Atlanta has been competitive at home this season but the last two contests have been ugly for the Hawks. Both the Raptors and Wizards throttled the Hawks in recent days and, even with a better showing in the middle against Charlotte on the road, this is a spot in which Atlanta is likely to be motivated to right the ship after three consecutive defeats.

The Wolves are led by the tremendous duo of Karl-Anthony Towns and Jimmy Butler, though Butler has been battling a knee issue recently that has sidelined the former Chicago Bulls swingman for multiple games. Both present significant challenges for a Hawks defense that is struggling mightily at the moment and, of course, the Wolves have a variety of other options, including old friend Jeff Teague and former No. 1 pick Andrew Wiggins.

From a high-end talent standpoint, this is a mismatch on paper and that manifests in the form of a significant point spread gap (in favor of Minnesota) in Las Vegas. Still, the Hawks are more than capable of playing well in their home environment and, if Minnesota does not bring their top-tier performance, this could be a competitive, entertaining contest in the Wolves’ only trip to Atlanta this season.

Stay tuned throughout the day for all the latest.

Game Info

Game Date/Time: Monday, January 29, 7:30 p.m. ET

Location: Philips Arena

TV: Fox Sports Southeast, Fox Sports Go, NBA League Pass

Radio: 92.9 The Game (Atlanta)