Raptors' defense meets Timberwolves' shooting in Minneapolis

The Toronto Raptors (46-36), sixth in defensive rating last season, visit the Minnesota Timberwolves (49-33), seventh in shooting, on Sunday, October 25, at 7:00 PM ET in a game that turns on turnovers.

Toronto forced turnovers on 13.5% of opponent possessions last season, fifth in the league. Minnesota gave the ball away on 12.4% of its own, 18th, so the Raptors' pressure has room to create extra possessions.

Minnesota's answer is its shooting. The Timberwolves ranked seventh in effective field goal percentage at 55.9 and seventh in free-throw rate, while Toronto allowed the 23rd-highest rate of foul shots. Getting to the line lets them score without turnovers.

Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves at 28.8 points a game, and Rudy Gobert grabbed 11.5 rebounds. Toronto's defensive rebounding, ranked 19th, faces a big test inside.

For the Raptors, Kawhi Leonard scored 27.9 points a game and shot 89.2% from the free-throw line. Scottie Barnes added 7.5 rebounds and 1.5 blocks.

Minnesota is without Donte DiVincenzo, who is out and played 30.5 minutes a game last season. Toronto lists guard Malachi Smith, who averaged 23.9 minutes, as out. Nate Bittle, also out, is due back Wednesday, October 28.

Both teams opened this season with wins. Toronto beat Chicago 135-92 and won 112-102 at Washington. Minnesota won 131-106 at Miami and 115-93 at Orlando, so each arrives off two double-digit margins.

The game is at Target Center. Sportsbooks' prices give each team a 50% chance to win, while Keel's projection, built from the players available, gives Toronto 56.1% and Minnesota 43.9%.