Pelicans vs Timberwolves Preview: Battle of Resilience on Sunday

Sunday feels like a season snapshot because both teams rest regulars before the playoffs. New Orleans brings hope and risk, with Zion healthy and rookies turning heads, although several starters are out. Minnesota sits sixth and is protecting players like Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert for the postseason, so many role players will play. The crowd will see younger bench players compete hard, and coaches will test lineups while keeping stars fresh for April 18.

Minnesota will miss stars like Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert, so look for bench players to step up. New Orleans will also be missing several starters, including Trey Murphy and Dejounte Murray, which opens minutes for Jeremiah Fears and Jordan Poole. Zion should dominate inside because he is strong and healthy, while Anthonys absence means the Wolves need other scorers. Coaches will test pick-and-roll defense and rebounding without their usual anchors.

Watch Zion battle inside while New Orleans builds momentum for next season. Trey Murphys scoring leap matters, but hes out tonight, so measure the Pelicans depth instead. Minnesota will rest starters, so this game previews playoff rotation choices rather than a full-strength showdown. Can bench players show they are playoff-ready? If they do well, coaches gain trust. This final game matters for confidence and lineup decisions heading into April 18.