In a thrilling showdown on April 12, 2026, the Minnesota Timberwolves edged out the New Orleans Pelicans with a final score of 132-126. This victory capped off the Timberwolves’ regular season, allowing them to finish with a strong 49-33 record, while the Pelicans struggled, tying for the eighth-worst record in the NBA alongside the Dallas Mavericks.
Jeremiah Fears was a standout for the Pelicans, scoring an impressive 36 points, along with 10 rebounds and 6 assists. His performance, however, was not enough to secure a win for New Orleans. Derik Queen also made significant contributions, adding 30 points and pulling down 22 rebounds, showcasing his ability to dominate the boards.
The Timberwolves, despite missing several key rotational players, demonstrated a balanced team effort. Their ability to score consistently throughout the game was crucial in maintaining their lead against the Pelicans. Observers noted that the Timberwolves matched their scoring with contributions from various players, emphasizing their depth even in challenging circumstances.
For the Pelicans, the loss marked a continuation of their recent struggles, as they have now gone 1-9 straight up in their last 10 games. Additionally, they are 2-6 against the spread (ATS) in their last eight games, raising concerns about their performance heading into the postseason.
Historically, the Pelicans have had a mixed record against the Timberwolves, but they managed to maintain a competitive edge in recent matchups, going 4-1 ATS in their last five games against Minnesota. However, their current form has seen them falter, particularly on the road, where they are 0-5 ATS in their last five outings.
Statistically, the total points scored in this game reflected the offensive capabilities of both teams, with the total going over in four of the last five games played in Minnesota. The Pelicans have also seen the total go under in 10 of their last 15 games, indicating a potential shift in their scoring dynamics.
As the Timberwolves celebrate their victory and prepare for the playoffs, the Pelicans face an uncertain future. With their recent form raising questions about their competitiveness, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how they respond in the coming games. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential changes to their lineup or strategy as they look to turn their season around.