Minnesota Timberwolves vs New Orleans Pelicans Picks and Predictions March 21st 2025

Timberwolves Look to Snap Out of 2-Game Slump in Pelicans Rematch

The Minnesota Timberwolves (40-31) are searching for answers after back-to-back losses, including a frustrating 119-115 defeat to the New Orleans Pelicans (19-51) on Wednesday night. The rematch on Friday night in Minneapolis offers the Timberwolves a quick chance to bounce back and regain their winning form.

After an impressive eight-game winning streak, Minnesota suddenly finds itself in a funk. Star forward Julius Randle expressed his concern, saying, “We’ve just got to get our energy back, man — our swag. It’s crunch time in the season, and we’re kind of pressing… We’re not playing with that same spirit or the same confidence.”

Minnesota is still jockeying for position in the tight Western Conference playoff race, making Friday’s game vital. The Timberwolves need a spark to reignite their playoff push, and head coach Chris Finch knows it: “We have to get back to playing our brand of basketball and focus on what has worked for us.”

Timberwolves’ Offensive Struggles and Key Performances

Anthony Edwards has been Minnesota’s most consistent offensive weapon, averaging 27.6 points per game on 44.1 percent shooting, including an impressive 40 percent from beyond the arc. Randle follows with 18.7 points per game, while Naz Reid contributes 14.6 points per game off the bench.

However, despite their potent offense, the Timberwolves have struggled to find consistency in their recent losses. Against the Pelicans on Wednesday, Minnesota shot just 43.8 percent from the field, including a dismal 30.2 percent from three-point range.

“We’ve been playing great for maybe three weeks. I don’t know what happened, but something happened with all of us,” Edwards said after the game. “We’ll figure it out, hopefully sooner than later.”

Pelicans Building Confidence Despite Playoff Elimination

While the New Orleans Pelicans are out of playoff contention, they are not rolling over. Coach Willie Green sees these remaining games as opportunities for his players to develop and compete against playoff-caliber teams.

“We’re playing against teams that are preparing to play in the playoffs,” Green said. “That’s an opportunity for guys to step on the floor and see where they measure up.”

Zion Williamson has been the standout performer for the Pelicans, scoring 29 points on an efficient 12-for-16 shooting performance against the Timberwolves on Wednesday. His physical dominance around the rim proved too much for Minnesota’s defense.

CJ McCollum continues to be a reliable scorer, averaging 20.9 points per game with 44.1 percent shooting from the field. McCollum’s sharpshooting from long range (37.5 percent) makes him a constant threat.

Key Matchup: Edwards vs. Williamson

The most intriguing matchup of the night is undoubtedly between Anthony Edwards and Zion Williamson. Edwards will need to continue his scoring prowess while also stepping up defensively to contain Williamson’s powerful drives to the basket.

Both players are dynamic, athletic scorers who can take over games when they get hot. The Timberwolves must prioritize keeping Williamson out of the paint and forcing McCollum into difficult shots from beyond the arc.

Expert Betting Guide and Picks

• Pick Page: Timberwolves are favored to bounce back at home, but the Pelicans’ recent form makes it a closer contest than it appears.
• Odds Page: Expect a tight game, with the spread likely within five points.
• Expert Betting Guide: Given New Orleans’ strong showing on Wednesday and Minnesota’s inconsistency, consider the Pelicans to cover the spread. However, if the Timberwolves find their rhythm, they could take the win.

NBA Playoff Push and Key Player Awards

• Western Conference Playoff Race: Minnesota remains in the thick of the race, but every game counts as they vie for a play-in spot.
• NBA MVP Consideration: Edwards continues to put up impressive numbers, but Minnesota’s overall record dampens his candidacy.
• Most Improved Player: With his scoring numbers climbing, Edwards could make a late-season push for recognition.
• NBA Defensive Player of the Year: Although he’s not a favorite, Randle’s effort and leadership on defense have been vital for Minnesota.

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Final Thoughts

The Timberwolves have a prime opportunity to bounce back at home and break out of their slump. Meanwhile, the Pelicans, with nothing to lose, will be playing with energy and a sense of freedom. The clash between Edwards and Williamson will be must-watch basketball, and both teams are desperate to prove a point.

Will Minnesota rediscover their swagger, or will New Orleans continue to play spoiler? The answer may come down to which team shows more hustle and grit when it matters most.