Projecting the Timberwolves’ possible first-round matchups

(6) Minnesota Timberwolves vs. (3) Portland Trail Blazers

This series would be intriguing, to say the least.

The teams split the season series at two games apiece. To break it down even more, the Wolves took the first two games at the Target Center and the Blazers have taken the last two games at the Moda Center in Portland. Home court will play a large role in this possible series.

Besides that, both teams have averaged 110.3 points per game against one another. Both teams are close to even in terms of field goal percentage when facing each other; the Wolves have shot 49.4 percent from the field while the Blazers have shot 49.3 percent.

The key difference has been 3-point shooting. The Wolves have been held to 32.4 percent 3-point shooting on 18.5 attempts per game against the Blazers this season. On the other hand, the Blazers have cashed in on 42.7 percent of their threes on 27.5 attempts per game against the Wolves this season.

Both teams have possessed the ball well against one another this season. Whoever wins the turnover battle may also ultimately win the series.

The biggest difference for the Wolves will be the return of Butler. He has played very well against the Blazers this season and his defense on Damian Lillard or C.J. McCollum may make all the difference.

From there, it comes down to however the rest of the team plays defense for at least four games. Just as against any team, defense will be the deciding factor that determines how far the Wolves can go.