Timberwolves vs Pelicans Prediction 13 April 2026
🔊 Will the teams find motivation in a matchup that holds little significance? In this NBA regular season game, Minnesota face off against New Orleans. The difference in class is quite noticeable. Despite multiple roster issues throughout the season, the Timberwolves have secured a direct playoff spot. Meanwhile, the visitors have struggled with much poorer results. However, despite these differences, both teams might share a reluctance to push themselves to the limit and increase the pace. It's hard to expect this clash to deliver a high-scoring affair.
Head-to-Head
📊 The last meeting between these opponents took place not too long ago, in early February. The Pelicans pulled off a surprising victory with a score of 119-115. However, it's worth noting that prior to this, Minnesota had won four consecutive games.
Head-to-head statistics Timberwolves - Pelicans
Minnesota Timberwolves Team Overview
It's likely that the Timberwolves will not field their best lineup. After all, it's the last game of the regular season, and with a direct playoff spot already secured, the game loses its significance. For some key players, staying healthy is the top priority. It's uncertain if Edwards will even see significant minutes. Sure, he delivered a strong performance against Houston (136-132), but a similar shootout against the Pelicans seems unlikely. Expect more physical play, battles, and tough collisions. No one is looking to take unnecessary risks.
Minnesota averages 119.6 points per game, a pretty impressive stat. However, this figure was built under the motivation to win every game. What happens now is unclear. Yes, the Wolves are unlikely to perform poorly at home, but finding their shooting rhythm might be more challenging. Especially since a couple of key players are currently unavailable. They'll have to rely on their bench, which may not be able to maintain the same high level of efficiency.
Match Results: Minnesota Timberwolves
New Orleans Pelicans Team Overview
The situation for the visitors this season is crystal clear-another strategic "tanking" for a higher draft pick. Yet, even in this, the Pelicans have faltered. They sit at the 11th spot in the Western Conference, long out of playoff contention. They haven't managed to slip below Memphis and Dallas. It's likely that New Orleans will feature a lot of deep bench players on the court, especially since several key figures are no longer taking the floor.
Among significant statistical metrics, their shooting efficiency is notably poor-averaging just 46.7%. This is compounded by dismal teamwork, with only 25.2 assists per game. In the NBA offensive ratings, they rank 22nd. Against a more organized opponent, this could become a critical issue. The Pelicans' scoring has struggled recently, evident in their games against Orlando (112-180) and Portland (106-118).
Match Results: New Orleans Pelicans
Latest news
Minnesota Timberwolves
⛔️ Among the injured for Minnesota are Randle, Hyland, and Ingles. Reid is questionable.
📋 Projected lineup: DiVincenzo, Edwards, Dosunmu, McDaniels, Gobert.
New Orleans Pelicans
⛔️ The visitors will definitely be without Williamson, Murphy, Matkovic, Missy, and Murray.
📋 Projected lineup: Poole, Fears, Bey, Quinn, Looney.
🏀 Three-Point Shooting
Minnesota boast an impressive perimeter attack, converting 37% of their attempts. However, their perimeter defense is below league average, allowing 35.9% of shots from beyond the arc.
New Orleans struggle significantly from the perimeter, managing only 35% success rate, placing them 24th in offensive rankings. Interestingly, despite their offensive woes, the visitors defend the three-point line effectively, conceding just 35%.
Editorial Prediction
Minnesota are clear favorites in the upcoming matchup, especially on their home court where they are unlikely to ease up. The opposing team seems like a prime candidate for a lackluster performance, making the Timberwolves poised to deliver a solid showing on both ends of the floor. However, despite their offensive efficiency, scoring might not reach high numbers as some players look to rest before the playoffs, and there are injuries among key contributors. While Edwards might theoretically surpass his average scoring, it's unlikely the entire team will do so. The Pelicans face significant challenges without their key players, suggesting a low-scoring outcome is on the horizon. Our editorial team sees a logical bet on under 237.5 points.No comments
Betting Tips: Minnesota Timberwolves - New Orleans Pelicans
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