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- What: NBA Regular Season Game
- When: January 7, 2025
- Who: Minnesota Timberwolves vs. New Orleans Pelicans
- Time: 8:00 p.m. EST
- Where: Smoothie King Center (New Orleans, LA)
The New Orleans Pelicans are gearing up to face the Minnesota Timberwolves, and the betting line has them as 5.5-point underdogs. However, I’m confident that the Pelicans will not only cover that spread but might even pull off the win. Here’s why.
First, let’s discuss the Timberwolves. They’re coming off back-to-back games, which can be a killer in the NBA, especially when trying to keep up with a team hungry for a win.
Minnesota has been struggling lately, dropping three straight games, and they’re currently sitting at a .500 record. Their recent losses to the OKC Thunder, Boston Celtics, and Detroit Pistons have exposed some serious weaknesses in their lineup.
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Game Preview (Timberwolves vs. Pelicans)
| Spread |  |  |  |
| Minnesota Timberwolves -5 Points | -110 | -110 | -110 |
| New Orleans Pelicans +5 Points | -110 | -110 | -110 |
On the other hand, the Pelicans are on the upswing. Head coach Willie Green recently announced that Zion Williamson has been practicing in 5-on-5 drills and could make his return this week.
Williamson has been sidelined since November 6 due to a hamstring injury, but his potential return is a game-changer.
In the six games he played this season, he averaged 22.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 5.3 assists. His presence on the court could instantly elevate the Pelicans’ offensive game, which has struggled without him.
The Pelicans have been dealing with their own injury woes, but the return of Williamson could provide the spark they desperately need.
They’ve been near the bottom of the league in points per game, and adding a player of Zion’s caliber could flip that script. The team has been working hard to adapt, but let’s be real: they need their star to compete effectively.
Moreover, the Timberwolves’ defense has been shaky, allowing 109.2 points per game. With the Pelicans potentially getting back their leading scorer, they could exploit this weakness.
Boomin' at practice 🔨 pic.twitter.com/vcoMS05lqr
— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) January 6, 2025
If Williamson plays, expect him to draw attention from defenders, opening up opportunities for other players like Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum to capitalize on mismatches.
Another factor to consider is the Pelicans’ home-court advantage. They’ll be playing at the Smoothie King Center, where the energy from the crowd can be a significant boost.
The Timberwolves will be on the road, and traveling after back-to-back games can lead to fatigue, which is not ideal when facing a team that’s looking to make a statement.
With the Timberwolves coming off back-to-back games and the potential return of Zion Williamson, I believe the Pelicans will cover the 5.5-point spread.
They have the motivation, the home-court advantage, and possibly the best player on the court back in action. It’s shaping up to be an exciting game, and I’m all in on the Pelicans to make a statement.
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Total Points
| Total Points | | | |
| Over 220.5 | -105 | -105 | -110 |
| Under 220.5 | -115 | -115 | -110 |
In terms of stats, the Pelicans have averaged 109.2 points per game, but that number could see a significant uptick with Williamson back in the lineup.
The Timberwolves, meanwhile, have struggled to score consistently, especially without their All-Star forward Karl-Anthony Towns. Anthony Edwards has been carrying the load but can’t do it alone.
The Pelicans will likely focus their defense on him, making it tough for Minnesota to find their rhythm.
ANT-MAN. pic.twitter.com/xwRffzGiUY
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) January 7, 2025
Lastly, let’s not forget the psychological aspect of this matchup. The Timberwolves are reeling from their recent losses, and the pressure is mounting.
They need to snap out of this slump, but facing a team that could have a rejuvenated Williamson might just be the last thing they want right now.
Conversely, the Pelicans are looking to build momentum and prove they can compete in the Western Conference.
This total of 220 points is a low number. I don’t really understand this one. It feels like a mistake by oddsmakers. These high-powered offenses should easily pass this number.
Over 220.5 points at -105 odds is the play in this one.
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