In a thrilling matchup on April 12, 2026, the Minnesota Timberwolves edged out the New Orleans Pelicans with a final score of 132-126. This victory marked a strong finish for the Timberwolves, who concluded their regular season with an impressive 49-33 record, while the Pelicans struggled, tying for the eighth-worst record in the NBA alongside the Dallas Mavericks.
Jeremiah Fears led the Pelicans with a remarkable performance, scoring 36 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and dishing out 6 assists. His efforts were complemented by Derik Queen, who also had a standout game, contributing 30 points and an impressive 22 rebounds. Despite these individual achievements, the Pelicans faced challenges, having lost 9 of their last 10 games and struggling with a 2-6 record against the spread in their last 8 outings.
The Timberwolves showcased a balanced team effort, even in the absence of several key rotational players. Their ability to match scoring and maintain composure under pressure was evident throughout the game. The Timberwolves’ victory not only solidified their playoff positioning but also highlighted their depth and resilience as a team.
For the Pelicans, this defeat underscored a tough season, as they continue to grapple with inconsistencies. They have struggled on the road, going 0-5 against the spread in their last five away games. However, they have historically performed well against the Timberwolves, boasting a 4-1 record against the spread in their last five matchups.
As the game unfolded, the total points scored reflected a high-paced contest, with the total going over in 4 of the last 5 games played on the road against Minnesota. This trend indicates a potential for offensive fireworks in future encounters between these two teams.
Looking ahead, the Pelicans will need to regroup and address their recent struggles if they hope to turn their season around. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves will aim to build on their momentum as they head into the playoffs, with fans eagerly anticipating how their team will perform in the postseason.
With the regular season now behind them, both teams will reflect on their journeys. The Timberwolves, buoyed by their recent success, will seek to capitalize on their strengths, while the Pelicans will need to confront their challenges head-on. As the basketball community watches closely, the upcoming playoff matchups promise to deliver excitement and drama.
