Game Preview New Orleans Pelicans @ Minnesota Timberwolves
The New Orleans Pelicans head to Target Center to face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday, December 4. This Western Conference matchup features two playoff-caliber teams with elite frontcourt talent and contrasting play styles.
Minnesota has been one of the NBA’s top teams this season, powered by the league’s best defense and efficient half-court execution. The Pelicans, meanwhile, continue to rely on the scoring versatility of Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram to keep pace in a competitive Western race.
Minnesota leads the season series 1-0 after a physical win earlier this year. This rematch could have early playoff seeding implications.
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Odds and Key Information
The Timberwolves are listed as 4.5-point home favorites, with the total hovering around 222.5. Minnesota is 10-1 at home this season, while the Pelicans are 5-6 on the road.
Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 PM ET from Target Center.
Check real-time lines and injury updates at the NBA betting odds hub.
Golden State Warriors
Philadelphia 76ers
Los Angeles Lakers
Toronto Raptors
Utah Jazz
Brooklyn Nets
Minnesota Timberwolves
New Orleans Pelicans
New Orleans Pelicans Outlook
The Pelicans are 12-10 and have shown signs of cohesion with a healthy Zion Williamson in the lineup. Zion is averaging 23.4 points and 6.7 rebounds, while Brandon Ingram continues to contribute with efficient mid-range scoring and playmaking.
New Orleans ranks top 10 in offensive rebounding and limits turnovers, but defensive lapses and inconsistent perimeter shooting remain issues—especially against teams with size like Minnesota.
The key for the Pelicans will be containing Rudy Gobert inside while finding ways to score against one of the league’s most disciplined defenses.
Track their playoff outlook on the Pelicans team page and Western Conference blog.
Minnesota Timberwolves Outlook
The Timberwolves are 15-5 and boast the NBA’s best defensive rating. Rudy Gobert is anchoring the paint at an elite level, while Jaden McDaniels and Anthony Edwards lock down the perimeter. Offensively, Edwards leads the team with 25.9 points per game, while Karl-Anthony Towns stretches the floor and contributes inside.
Minnesota ranks in the top five in opponent FG% and defensive rebounding. Their slow pace and execution-heavy half-court offense grind down faster-paced teams like New Orleans.
Chris Finch’s squad has won 8 of its last 10 games and is a dominant 10-1 at home this season.
Check out the Timberwolves team profile and related Western Conference predictions.
Key Matchup
Zion Williamson vs Rudy Gobert is the spotlight matchup. Zion’s strength and finishing ability will be tested by Gobert’s length and rim protection. If Zion struggles to score inside, New Orleans will be forced to rely on outside shooting—an area where they’re inconsistent.
Also watch for Edwards vs Ingram on the wing, where Edwards’ two-way ability could be a swing factor.
Explore more positional outlooks on the NBA DPOY odds page and Most Improved Player predictions.
Betting Trends
Pelicans are 4-6 ATS in their last 10 games
Timberwolves are 7-3 ATS in their last 10
Under is 5-2 in Pelicans’ last 7 road games
Under is 6-2 in Timberwolves’ last 8 overall
Minnesota is 4-1 SU in last 5 games vs New Orleans
More betting angles available on the NBA picks page and Expert Betting Guide.
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Prediction
The Pelicans have the firepower to keep this close, but Minnesota’s defense, home-court dominance, and size advantage create a tough matchup. Expect Gobert to control the paint and Edwards to outshine New Orleans’ wings.
Projected Score:
Timberwolves 110, Pelicans 102
Spread Pick: Timberwolves -4.5
Total Lean: Under 222.5
Follow more futures trends at the NBA Championship blog and MVP race breakdown.
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