Timberwolves Aim to Bounce Back Against Struggling Pelicans

MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota — The Minnesota Timberwolves are looking to reset their momentum after a stunning overtime loss to the Indiana Pacers on March 17. With the New Orleans Pelicans visiting Target Center for a two-game series beginning March 19, the Wolves are determined to rebound from their disappointing performance.

In what many fans are calling one of the most maddening losses of the season, the Wolves squandered a significant opportunity against a shorthanded Pacers squad, ultimately losing 134-130 despite Indiana missing key players like Pascal Siakam, Tyrese Haliburton, and Myles Turner. Minnesota—including star Anthony Edwards, who struggled with a 1-for-11 shooting performance from beyond the arc—allowed the Pacers to score 30 points in two quarters, showcasing a troubling lack of defensive intensity.

“This was not just a frustrating loss; this was a wasted opportunity,” said a visibly frustrated Edwards. “We had to capitalize on their injuries, and we didn’t do that.”

The Timberwolves now find themselves still holding on to seventh place in the Western Conference, tied with the Golden State Warriors. This tie comes after an uneasy stretch of games where Minnesota has dropped winnable matches to teams like San Antonio and Portland. Analysts note that each loss is particularly damaging as the team looks to secure a playoff spot and improve their standing going into the final weeks of the regular season.

Head coach Chris Finch emphasized the need for improvement. “We can’t let that game linger. We have to focus on what’s ahead against New Orleans,” he said. “It’s a must-win situation if we want to get our confidence back.”

As the Timberwolves prepare to face the struggling Pelicans, who themselves just suffered a humiliating 46-point defeat, they are looking to correct their mistakes on both sides of the court. This matchup is critical not only for moral support but for positioning as they edge closer to the playoffs.

To secure a victory, the Timberwolves will need to strengthen their defense, minimize turnovers, and get back to playing aggressive basketball. Fans are calling for players like Rudy Gobert and Julius Randle to dominate the paint, while Edwards must remain aggressive and avoid settling for outside shots.

“We need to own the paint and limit their offensive rebounds,” Gobert stated. “If we can do that and play focused defense, we can take control of the game.”

The game is set to tip-off at 7:00 PM CDT at Target Center, with broadcasts available on the FanDuel Sports Network North and radio coverage on iHeart Radio. As the playoffs loom near, the outcome against the Pelicans could determine the Timberwolves’ outlook for the rest of the season.