The NBA regular season is underway, and fans are ready for the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the New Orleans Pelicans. The Timberwolves, with a 6-3 record, will visit the Pelicans, who hold a 4-4 record. The action takes place at the Smoothie King Center on Friday, November 6, 2026, at 8:00 PM.
Minnesota comes into this game with momentum, having won their last two games. They are currently ranked seventh in the Western Conference. Under the guidance of head coach Chris Finch, the team has shown strong performances both at home and on the road.
New Orleans, coached by Jamahl Mosley, is looking to continue their positive streak. They have won their last four games and aim to use their home advantage to extend this run. The Pelicans are ranked tenth in the Western Conference and fourth in the Southwest Division.
The odds slightly favor the Timberwolves with a spread of -4.5. Both teams have key players capable of changing the course of the game. Fans can catch the game live on KARE.
Pelicans vs Timberwolves At a Glance
- Team Records: Timberwolves are 6-3; Pelicans are 4-4.
- Venue: The game is at Smoothie King Center.
- Game Odds: Timberwolves are favored by 4.5 points.
- TV Channel: Watch the game on KARE.
- Star Player: Zion Williamson scored 23 points in the last game for the Pelicans.
- Timberwolves Streak: They have won their last 2 games.
New Orleans Pelicans Prepare for Home Game Challenge
Offensive Power
The New Orleans Pelicans are known for their strong offense. They score 121.6 points per game, ranking third in the league. Their high possession rate of 105.8 per game is the best in the league.
They excel at getting to the free-throw line, making 26.4 free throws per game. This ranks them first in the league. Their free throw shooting accuracy is 82.4%, which is second best.
Defensive Concerns
The Pelicans struggle on defense, allowing 119.2 points per game. This ranks them 25th in the league. Their field goal percentage allowed is 47.7%, placing them 23rd.
Despite allowing many points, they defend the three-point line well. Opponents shoot just 31.3% from beyond the arc against them, ranking them fifth.
Key Players to Watch
Zion Williamson is a key player for the Pelicans. He averages 21.5 points and 5.1 rebounds per game. His shooting percentage is an impressive 60.8%.
Dejounte Murray provides strong support with 18.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game. Saddiq Bey also contributes with 16.4 points and a 51.1% field goal percentage.
Recent Performance
The Pelicans have won their last three games. They defeated the Utah Jazz, Memphis Grizzlies, and Atlanta Hawks. Their strong offensive play was key in these victories.
In the game against the Jazz, Zion Williamson scored 23 points. Derik Queen also played well with 20 points and 9 rebounds.
Betting Trends
- The Pelicans have a 3-0 record in their last three games.
- They are 6-2 against the spread in all games this season.
- Their over/under record in the last 10 games is 5-3.
- They have a 100% win rate as favorites.
Minnesota Timberwolves: A Look at the Away Team's Game Plan
Offensive Performance
The Timberwolves score an average of 118.8 points per game. This ranks them 6th in the league. They attempt 92.9 field goals each game, which is 4th in the NBA.
Their field goal percentage is 47.6%, placing them 5th overall. They make an impressive 15.1 three-pointers per game. This ranks them 7th in the league.
Defensive Stats
Defensively, the Timberwolves allow 107.6 points per game. This is the 4th best in the league. Their field goal percentage allowed is 43.4%, ranking them 5th.
They are effective at limiting opponent three-point shots. They allow 11.7 made threes per game, which is 5th best.
Key Players
Ayo Dosunmu stands out with an average of 16.3 points and 4.3 assists per game. LaMelo Ball adds 17.2 points and 5.9 assists per game.
Jaden McDaniels contributes with 16.4 points and 6.2 rebounds. Rudy Gobert is a key rebounder with 11.9 rebounds per game.
Recent Game Performances
The Timberwolves won against the Rockets, scoring 117 points. Ayo Dosunmu led with 21 points and 6 assists.
In their previous game against the Bucks, they scored 112 points. LaMelo Ball scored 34 points, aiding their victory.
Injury Concerns
Anthony Edwards is out with a knee injury and will miss several weeks. Donte DiVincenzo is also out due to a torn Achilles.
Terrence Shannon Jr. is questionable with a hip contusion. His status for the upcoming game is uncertain.
Betting Trends
- They have won 66.7% of their last 3 games.
- Against the spread, they are 8-1 in their last 10 games.
- They have hit the over in 5 of their last 9 games.
Pelicans vs Timberwolves Prediction: Over 229.5
The Timberwolves have an offensive average of 118.8 points per game, which ranks them 6th in the league. This shows they can score a lot of points. Their defensive stats, while strong, will be tested by the Pelicans' high pace.
The Pelicans rank 3rd in points per game at 121.6. They also lead the league in possessions per game. This indicates that their games tend to be high-scoring affairs.
With both teams having strong offensive outputs, the likelihood of a high-scoring game increases. The Pelicans allow 119.2 points per game, which ranks them 25th in the league. This further supports the potential for a high total score.
Considering these stats, picking the game to go over 229.5 points seems reasonable. A projected score of Timberwolves 125 - Pelicans 120 supports this prediction.
- Pelicans vs Timberwolves Prediction: Over 229.5
- Pelicans vs Timberwolves Score: Timberwolves 125 - Pelicans 120
Disclaimer: Knup Predictions are for entertainment and informational purposes only. Must be 21+ where applicable. Please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Get more picks and sports insights in your inbox
Subscribe to the Knup newsletter for nightly NBA previews, sports business notes, and ecosystem updates.