The Minnesota Timberwolves have quickly become one of the NBA's hottest teams to begin the season, and much of the attention has centered around the dynamic pairing of Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball. However, with the injury to Edwards, the Wolves have done everything they can to stay afloat. Minnesota has looked explosive offensively while pushing the pace. As impressive as the Timberwolves have been, this feels like a spot where the market may be overreacting to their fast start. They're coming off several statement performances, and expectations have climbed rapidly, making them a road favorite against a Pelicans team that is better than its early record suggests. This has all the makings of a difficult scheduling spot against an opponent that should be desperate to pick up a quality win on its home floor.
New Orleans has been more competitive than its record indicates, with several close losses against quality opponents despite failing to consistently close games out. Zion Williamson continues to give the Pelicans a matchup advantage inside, while Trey Murphy III and the supporting cast provide enough perimeter scoring to keep pace with Minnesota's high-powered offense. The Pelicans have also shown they can defend at a high level when fully engaged, and playing at home should help them match Minnesota's physicality for four quarters. While the Timberwolves deserve the national attention they've received, this feels like a classic buy low opportunity on a talented home underdog. Expect New Orleans to slow the game down, make Minnesota earn every basket, and keep this contest within striking distance from start to finish.
Timberwolves vs Pelicans prediction: New Orleans Pelicans +4.5 (-110) available at time of publishing. Playable to that number.
