Up arrow
NBA
Games

Minnesota Timberwolves vs. New Orleans Pelicans: Preview, Predictions and Picks for January 7, 2025

Updated on:
Jan 7, 2025 9:05 PM
On Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 8:00 PM, the Minnesota Timberwolves, currently ninth in the Western Conference with a record of 18-17, will face off against the New Orleans Pelicans, who sit 15th in the conference with a 7-29 record, at the Smoothie King Center. The Timberwolves, who have a strong conference record of 15-10, will look to capitalize on the Pelicans' struggles, particularly at home where they are 5-14. Expect a competitive matchup as Anthony Edwards and the Timberwolves aim to come out on top against their Western Conference foes.
Minnesota Timberwolves vs New Orleans Pelicans

Current Odds

MIN
NO
Over
210.5
+100
Under
213.5
-120
MIN
-11.5
+100
NO
+10.5
+106
MIN
ML
-1659
NO
ML
+2400

New Orleans Pelicans recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
1/5/25 @ Washington Wizards W 110-98
1/3/25 vs Washington Wizards W 132-120
1/1/25 @ Miami Heat L 119-108
12/30/24 vs LA Clippers L 116-113
12/27/24 vs Memphis Grizzlies L 132-124

Minnesota Timberwolves recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
1/4/25 @ Detroit Pistons L 119-105
1/2/25 vs Boston Celtics L 118-115
12/31/24 @ Oklahoma City Thunder L 113-105
12/29/24 vs San Antonio Spurs W 112-110
12/27/24 @ Houston Rockets W 113-112

New Orleans Pelicans injuries

  • Trey Murphy III (SG): Out
  • Dejounte Murray (SG): Day-To-Day
  • Zion Williamson (PF): Out
  • Karlo Matkovic (C): Out
  • Brandon Ingram (SF): Out

Minnesota Timberwolves injuries

  • Rob Dillingham (G): Out

Timberwolves vs Pelicans game info

Type Info
Venue Smoothie King Center
Location New Orleans, LA
Tip-off Tue 8:00 PM

Timberwolves vs Pelicans predictions

Let's talk about the Minnesota Timberwolves and the dynamic force that is Anthony Edwards. He's expected to put on quite a show against the New Orleans Pelicans, aiming for around 24 points. Edwards, with his high-flying antics and clutch shooting, can swing the momentum of the game in the Wolves’ favor at any moment. Adding to the mix, Julius Randle is a maestro when it comes to dishing out assists. About 4.5 assists, as expected, could come naturally from his play tonight, sparking those crucial offensive rotations. And with Rudy Gobert controlling the glass, likely snagging over a dozen rebounds and adding some key blocks, the Timberwolves seem well-configured for a defensive presence that can stifle opponents.

On the flip side, CJ McCollum anchors the Pelicans’ offensive hopes, possibly lighting up the scoreboard with an estimated 22 points. His shooting precision is infectious, often gearing up the team's tempo. Don’t overlook Yves Missi either; while he might not dominate scoring, his defensive prowess and anticipated double-digit rebounds are vital in setting the tone under the basket. Meanwhile, Dejounte Murray, blending his skills with both defensive swipes and offensive setups—with over 6 assists on the board—adds an exciting flavor to how the Pelicans could challenge the Timberwolves.

So, who’s your money on? With the Timberwolves boasting a better record both overall and within the conference, and considering the Pelicans’ struggles, especially at home, you’d think Minnesota has the upper hand. The Wolves' edge in both offensive firepower and rebounding might just be too much for New Orleans to handle, leading to a Timberwolves victory. That said, the excitement of the NBA is that anything can happen, especially when teams are battling to climb the standings. So, seatbelts fastened—this one might just be a rollercoaster.

New Orleans Pelicans

Minnesota Timberwolves

More Games