Opinion
3 min read

Pelicans Soaring High: New Orleans Set to Tangle with Timberwolves

As the New Orleans Pelicans prepare to face off against the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Target Center, fans are buzzing with anticipation. The Pelicans have been on a formidable streak, and their recent performances suggest that they're ready to extend their dominance.


SACRAMENTO, CA - DECEMBER 4: Naji Marshall #8 of the New Orleans Pelicans shoots a three point basket against the Sacramento Kings during the quarter finals of the In-Season Tournament on December 4, 2023 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)

Looking back at their last game on January 1st against the Los Angeles Lakers, NOP's victory was nothing short of spectacular. With a commanding 129-109 win, they showcased an offensive masterclass. The team's field goal percentage stood at an impressive 52 percent, and from beyond the arc, they were shooting lights out at 50 percent. Their bench contributed significantly with 29 points, demonstrating depth that could prove vital in upcoming games.


NOP's defensive prowess was equally notable in their December 29th matchup against Utah Jazz. They held Jazz to just 105 points while scoring 112 themselves. Their ability to convert defense into offense was evident as they scored a solid 15 points from fast breaks and maintained control for nearly the entire game.


The Pelicans' performance has been characterized by a well-rounded team effort; however, one cannot overlook their efficiency in scoring within the paint. In their January 3rd clash with Brooklyn Nets – which ended in a resounding victory of 112-85 – NOP dominated inside by putting up an astonishing number of points in paint (42), coupled with a two-point field goal percentage of over half (51 percent). This inside presence will be crucial when going up against Minnesota's defense.


The Timberwolves should not be underestimated though; playing on home turf can provide them with an edge that NOP must be prepared for. Despite this advantage for MIN, if NOP continues its trend of high efficiency both offensively and defensively while capitalizing on turnovers and second-chance opportunities as shown in past games, it is likely that New Orleans will emerge victorious once again.


Fans eager to witness whether NOP can continue its winning ways should mark their calendars for January 3rd at 7:00 PM Central Time when these two teams collide at Minneapolis' Target Center. The game will be broadcasted live on BSN for home fans and BSNO channel number 676-4 for those cheering from afar.

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