New Orleans PelicansOpen full analysis
Minnesota TimberwolvesOpen full analysis
The New Orleans Pelicans escaped Target Center with a 119–115 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on February 6, in a low-efficiency affair that finished below the 237.5-point Vegas total. Anthony Edwards led Minnesota with 35 points, supported by Julius Randle's 24, but the Timberwolves shot just 42.1 percent and made only 13 three-pointers while committing nine turnovers. New Orleans countered with balanced scoring—Shai Gilgeous-Alexander–led production, Shaerise Bey's 30 points, and Zion Williamson's 29—and capitalized on superior three-point shooting (15 made) and ball movement (29 assists). The Pelicans' third quarter proved decisive, outscoring Minnesota 33–24 to seize control, though New Orleans' 16 turnovers kept the margin uncomfortably close. Minnesota's defense held the Pelicans to a 120.5 offensive rating, yet the home team's own 120.5 offensive rating couldn't generate enough stops, particularly down the stretch. The loss stalls Minnesota's momentum as New Orleans solidifies its position in the Western Conference playoff race.
