Timberwolves vs Pelicans Picks and Prediction – 1/8/2025

The Smoothie King Center will play host to a Tuesday night NBA clash between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the New Orleans Pelicans. For other NBA action see our NBA Predictions. The Timberwolves (18-17) are two games below .500 on the road and are tied with Golden State for eighth place in the Western Conference standings. Last night, Minnesota stormed back from an early 19-point deficit to earn a 108-106 home victory versus the LA Clippers. 

All-Star G Anthony Edwards poured in a game-high 37 points (14-29 FG), eight assists, and seven rebounds. Naz Reid contributed 18 points and seven rebounds in 31 minutes off the Minnesota bench. Donte DiVincenzo added 15 points and eight rebounds for the Timberwolves. 

The New Orleans Pelicans have dropped 14 of their first 19 home games and own the worst overall record in the Western Conference. The Pelicans (7-29) rank 28th in the league in defensive efficiency and are surrendering 117.5 points per game. On Sunday, New Orleans completed a home-and-home sweep against Washington with a 110-98 road victory. 

All five New Orleans starters scored in double figures and were led by veteran G C.J. McCollum with 25 points. Trey Murphy chipped in 22 points (8-19 FG) and eight rebounds. Yves Missi added 16 points and seven rebounds for the Pelicans, who connected on 18-for-49 from the three-point line. 

New Orleans F Zion Williamson (hamstring) is listed as questionable for this game and F Brandon Ingram (ankle) is still a couple of days away from returning. The Timberwolves are the better defensive team and have a slight edge on the glass. Take Minnesota to win and cover on the road. Final Score Prediction, Minnesota Timberwolves win 117-106.