The Minnesota Timberwolves travel to Smoothie King Center on Thursday, December 4, to face the New Orleans Pelicans in a rematch following their 149-142 overtime victory on December 2.
Minnesota (13-8) enters on a three-game winning streak, led by Anthony Edwards, who is averaging 29.8 points and 4.5 rebounds per game. Julius Randle adds 22.7 points and 7.4 rebounds, while Rudy Gobert anchors the paint with 10.2 rebounds per game.
The Timberwolves’ injury report is minimal, with Enrique Freeman listed as available despite a face mask, and Rocco Zikarsky out on a two-way G League assignment, leaving Minnesota’s core rotation intact.
The Pelicans (3-19) struggle to find consistency amid a four-game losing streak and face a depleted lineup. Zion Williamson (right adductor), Dejounte Murray (right Achilles), Jordan Poole (left quad), and Herbert Jones (right calf) are all sidelined, removing the team’s top scorers and primary playmakers.
Karlo Matkovic is questionable with a right calf strain, and Yves Missi is out with right foot/ankle soreness, creating further gaps in New Orleans’ frontcourt depth.
Trey Murphy III leads the Pelicans with 20.4 points per game, while Saddiq Bey contributes 13.7 points and 6.0 rebounds. Jeremiah Fears averages 15.7 points and 3.3 rebounds.
The Timberwolves also benefit from the stability of Mike Conley, who averages 5.7 points and 3.3 assists while controlling tempo, giving Minnesota an advantage in managing a team facing multiple absences.
