Preview: Timberwolves Visit Bulls in Key Conference Matchup CHICAGO (Interstat) — Two teams trending in opposite directions will meet Monday night when the surging Chicago Bulls host the slumping Minnesota Timberwolves at United Center. The Timberwolves (20-11) arrive after a tough 142-138 overtime loss at Denver on Christmas Day, their second defeat in three games following a seven-game winning streak. The Bulls (15-15), meanwhile, have won five straight, including a 109-102 victory over Philadelphia on Friday, to reach .500 for the first time this season. All eyes will be on a marquee backcourt matchup between Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards and Chicago’s Josh Giddey. Edwards is coming off a 44-point performance in the loss to the Nuggets and has averaged 31.2 points over his last 10 games. His explosive scoring will be central to Minnesota’s hopes of snapping its recent skid. Giddey, however, has been the catalyst for Chicago’s resurgence, orchestrating the offense with remarkable consistency. During the five-game win streak, he has averaged 18.0 points, 9.0 rebounds and 11.2 assists, recording triple-doubles in three of those contests. His playmaking will test a Timberwolves defense that allowed 142 points in its last outing. Minnesota will need more from its supporting cast beyond Edwards and forward Julius Randle, who had 32 points against Denver. The Timberwolves have shown vulnerability on their current road stretch. Chicago’s offense has been firing on all cylinders during its streak, averaging 130.2 points per game in those wins. Alongside Giddey, contributors like Coby White and Jalen Smith have provided balanced scoring and energy. The game represents a critical benchmark for both squads. The Timberwolves aim to stabilize and protect their position near the top of the Western Conference, while the Bulls look to continue their climb in the Eastern Conference standings and prove their recent play is sustainable. Following this matchup, Minnesota continues a road trip in Atlanta on Wednesday. Chicago hosts New Orleans on New Year’s Eve.