Despite being without two of their biggest stars, the Pelicans put on a remarkable show on Monday night. With a great team effort and some impressive individual performances, the Pels simply outclassed the Pacers, 113-193. It was a clear sign that the pieces are falling into place as the season progressed. They are still no. 2 in the Western Conference with a 21-12 record and riding a three-game winning streak.
Meanwhile, the Minnesota Timberwolves are way below the conference with their sub-par results, considering they got several starts in the roster. They are 16-18 and want to end their three-game losing skid as they challenge the Pelicans at Smoothie King Center.
Can the Wolves hunt the Pels? Or it will be another blow-out win for the New Orleans squad?
Minnesota Timberwolves vs. New Orleans Pelicans Odds
| FanDuel Louisiana Odds | MIN Timberwolves | NO Pelicans |
| Point Spread | +6.5 (-108) | -6.5 (-112) |
| Money Line | +230 | -280 |
| DraftKings Louisiana Odds | MIN Timberwolves | NO Pelicans |
| Point Spread | +7 (-110) | -7 (-110) |
| Money Line | +250 | -300 |
| Total | O 233 (-110) | U 233 (-110) |
NBA odds may change based on recent sports news like injuries and issues. Visit Louisiana online sportsbooks for a full list of betting markets.
Wolves-Pelicans Injury Report
Zion Williamson has been the star of the show for the Pelicans this season despite missing last season due to foot surgery. The former Duke standout is averaging 25.2 points per game and remains their most efficient scoring threat. Unfortunately, he was out of Monday’s win over the Indiana Pacers due to a COVID diagnosis but is set to return soon. However, as per the reports, he wants to play against the Timberwolves.
“I gotta play. I sat on the sideline enough last year,” Zion said.
Meanwhile, forward Brandon Ingram is listed as doubtful with a toe injury while Trey Murphy and Herbert Jones contracted an illness and missed Monday’s game.
On the other hand, the Wolves have now dropped three straight games due to being without Jordan McLaughlin (calf), Taurean Prince (shoulder), Kyle Anderson (back), and Karl-Anthony Towns (calf).
Pelicans Can Do it on Both Sides
It should come as no surprise that the Pelicans are having such a successful season when you consider they have one of the most potent offenses in the league. Scoring 117.8 points per game and shooting 48.3% from the floor, they rank third and sixth in those respective categories.
Defensively, they are giving up 112.4 points per game which are 14th least in the league, and their opponents shoot just 46.3%, which ranks ninth lowest in the league. This combination allows them to be successful night after night on both ends of the court, making them one of the top teams in their division.
Wolves Need to Start Defending
The Minnesota Timberwolves have been impressive so far this season on offense, ranking third in the NBA for shooting percentage at 49.1% from the floor and 11th in points per game with 114.6.
On defense, however, is where they have had difficulties preventing their opponents from scoring by allowing 115.6 points per game and 45.9% shooting from the floor which is 22nd and seventh respectively in those categories.
Coach Ryan Saunders will be looking to turn things around quickly if the Timberwolves want to make a successful push into the playoffs this season.
