The New Orleans Pelicans head north to Minneapolis on Wednesday night, hoping to avoid extending their three-game road losing streak as they visit the Minnesota Timberwolves. It’s the second matchup of the season between these two teams, but the first of a quick back-to-back set, with another game scheduled in Minnesota for Friday.
For the Pelicans, things aren’t exactly trending up. Monday’s 127-81 blowout loss to the Pistons was a low point in what’s been a challenging season, especially given the number of bodies missing from the lineup. With Trey Murphy now added to the list of the wounded, head coach Willie Green will have to do some more major lineup juggling.
Only six players who suited up back on January 7—when the Pels last saw the Timberwolves—are available for this one. That first meeting saw Minnesota leave New Orleans with a 104-97 win, despite Zion Williamson’s strong return performance from a hamstring injury (22 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists). Unfortunately, the Pelicans’ roster looks much different now.
Who’s Stepping Up for New Orleans?
The injury bug has allowed some younger Pelicans to get valuable playing time. Rookie big Yves Missi is fresh off a double-double (12 points, 10 rebounds) in Monday’s loss. Missi’s energy on the glass and rim protection will be key if the Pelicans hope to contain Rudy Gobert and Julius Randle.
Second-year guard Jordan Hawkins is another player to watch. With Trey Murphy officially done for the year, Hawkins figures to soak up more minutes on the wing. Hawkins’ totals have risen in recent games, including four straight double-digit outings, giving the Pelicans a slight offensive spark. However, he’ll need more consistency after struggling the past two games.
Karlo Matkovic has quietly emerged as another reliable option. Over the last five games, he’s averaging 11 points and nearly 8 rebounds per game, filling a much-needed role as a steady interior presence. He’ll be seeing plenty of action again Wednesday as Green looks to patch together a frontcourt rotation.
And of course, there’s Zion Williamson, who poured in 30 points against Detroit despite the blowout. With much of the scoring load falling on his shoulders, Zion’s ability to stay aggressive—and out of foul trouble—will be crucial.
Timberwolves Pushing for Playoff Position
Minnesota is right in the thick of the Western Conference playoff chase. They’re sitting in seventh, a half-game behind Golden State for that coveted sixth seed (the last spot to avoid the Play-In Tournament). The Wolves have been red-hot—winning eight of their last 10 games and scoring in bunches.
Anthony Edwards remains the clear star. The 3-time All-Star dropped 38 points Monday and lit up New Orleans earlier this season for 32 points, including an impressive 7-for-11 from deep. Keeping him in check is a tall order, especially with the Pels’ best perimeter defenders banged up.
Rudy Gobert is still anchoring the defense. Minnesota is one of the better defensive teams in the West, holding opponents to 110.5 points per game over their last 10.
Key Matchup: Pelicans’ Frontcourt vs. Wolves’ Size
New Orleans is at a disadvantage on the wing, which puts extra pressure on the frontcourt to control the paint. Yves Missi and Karlo Matkovic must hold their own against Gobert and Randle. Minnesota thrives on second-chance points and rim protection, so the Pelicans’ 12.3 offensive boards per game (seventh in the league) need to translate to real opportunities if they want to keep this one competitive.
At this point in the season, the Pelicans are playing for pride—and maybe a chance to see how some of their young pieces fit moving forward. Minnesota, on the other hand, is all business, locked in on securing a top-six seed.
If New Orleans wants to steal one on the road, they’ll need a big night from Zion, improved shooting from Hawkins, and a gritty effort on the glass. Easier said than done against a Wolves team with everything to play for.
Most Recent Starting Lineups
| Minnesota Timberwolves | New Orleans Pelicans |
| G – Mike Conley | G – Bruce Brown |
| G – Anthony Edwards | G – CJ McCollum |
| F – Jaden McDdaniels | F – Trey Murphy |
| F – Julius Randle | F – Kelly Olynyk |
| C – Rudy Gobert | C – Karlo Matkovic |
Injuries
Minnesota Timberwolves: None
New Orleans Pelicans: Brandon Boston (left ankle stress reaction), Herb Jones (right shoulder torn rotator cuff), Trey Murphy (right shoulder), and Dejounte Murray (right Achilles rupture) are OUT.
Who: New Orleans Pelicans (18-51) vs Minnesota Timberwolves (40-30)
Season Series:
- Jan. 7: Timberwolves def. Pelicans, 104-97
- Mar. 19: Pelicans at Timberwolves
- Mar. 21: Pelicans at Timberwolves
Series History: The New Orleans Pelicans are 39-37 all-time against the Minnesota Timberwolves and have won two of three.
Where: Target Center
When: Mar. 19, 7:00 PM CT
Where to watch: Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network
Where to listen: WWL Radio 870 AM
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