Anthony Edwards stole the show with a 32-point performance, including seven 3-pointers, as the Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 104-97. The game marked the return of Zion Williamson after a 27-game absence due to a left hamstring strain. Williamson put up a solid performance with 22 points, six rebounds, four assists, three steals, and a block in 27 minutes.
Edwards Shines, Randle and Reid Contribute
Former Pelican Julius Randle added 16 points, while Naz Reid, an ex-LSU star, chipped in with 13 points and 12 rebounds. The Timberwolves dominated most of the game, leading by as many as 13 points. Rudy Gobert also made his presence felt with 14 rebounds and six blocks.
Key Moments in the Game
Edwards came out firing with four early 3-pointers and reached 14 points in less than seven minutes. He surpassed the 30-point mark for the ninth time this season. Dejounte Murray led the Pelicans with 27 points, but CJ McCollum struggled, shooting just 1-of-14.
In the third quarter, Edwards took over with a free throw and two more 3-pointers during a crucial 19-2 run that shifted the momentum in favor of the Timberwolves. This surge helped Minnesota turn a 64-57 deficit into a 75-66 lead in less than four minutes, and they never looked back.
Player Performances and Upcoming Games
Donte DiVincenzo started at point guard for the Timberwolves in place of Mike Conley, who came off the bench for just the second time in his Timberwolves career. DiVincenzo contributed 10 points, while Conley added eight.
Williamson and Murray showed promise as a duo for the Pelicans, connecting on some highlight plays. However, they lacked support as the Pelicans fell to their 21st loss in 24 games. Edwards' hot shooting from beyond the arc, at a remarkable 63.6%, proved to be a major factor in the Timberwolves' victory.
The Timberwolves will face the Orlando Magic next, while the Pelicans will host the Portland Trail Blazers in their upcoming games.
Timberwolves, Pelicans, Anthony Edwards, Zion Williamson, NBA, Basketball
