Two high-seeded teams from opposing conferences collide in what should be an entertaining match-up. One side has the reigning MVP, while the other has a rising star that could win that hardwood soon..

Catch the game tomorrow at 8:00 AM, Manila time.

AWAY: Minnesota Timberwolves (20-5, 9-4 AWAY)

Projected starting five:

• Mike Conley
• Anthony Edwards
• Jaden McDaniels
• Karl-Anthony Towns
• Rudy Gobert

The Timberwolves are on a three-game winning streak, and have also won nine of their last 10 contests. They are averaging 114.3 points per game in that span on a +10 net rating, which rings true to their top-tier defense that ranks first in points allowed (105.9 OPP PPG) and defensive rating.

The ever-entertaining Anthony Edwards (24.6 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 5.1 APG, 1.4 SPG) is sure to lead the team’s attack, and it will be key as always. Naz Reid (13.6 PPG) is there to provide scoring help, alongside veteran floor general Mike Conley (11.3 PPG, 6.2 APG), who should be able to continue running the offense nicely.

However, more eyes should be on Rudy Gobert (12.6 PPG, 12.2 RPG, 2.4 BPG) as he will be tasked to stop one of the league’s premiere big man and current leading scorer in Joel Embiid. It’s one to look out for because while Gobert is having a solid defensive season, he hasn’t done a good job on the Sixers big man over their last few encounters.

HOME: Philadelphia 76ers (18-8, 10-4 HOME)

Projected starting five:

• Tyrese Maxey
• DeAnthony Melton
• Tobias Harris
• Nic Batum
• Joel Embiid

The Sixers saw their six-game winning streak evaporate on Tuesday at home against the mediocre Chicago Bulls, 108-104. It was an ugly ending to one of the easiest stretches one team could have this season. They beat the lowly Detroit Pistons and Washington Wizards twice each, the Atlanta Hawks and Charlotte Hornets in that span. Now, they’ll have their hands full facing the fast-rising Timberwolves.

Still, there’s no changing the fact that Joel Embiid is in town – the reigning MVP and scoring champion, and who’s to say he won’t repeat in both categories? The Sixers are third in the East and he’s clocking in at 34.4 points, 11.8 boards, 6.0 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.9 blocks per game on the season. In fact, he at 40.0 PPG over his last seven outings.

Tyrese Maxey, Tobias Harris, DeAnthony Melton, and Kelly Oubre will remain as Embiid’s main help. Maxey headlines that group with 25.8 points and 6.7 assists.

PREDICTION:

Handicap: The Sixers (-3) fail to cover the spread.

Over/Under: The total goes under 225.5