As the NBA season continues to unfold in 2025, the New Orleans Pelicans will face off against the Minnesota Timberwolves on March 19. With both teams having different objectives—one aiming to develop young talent and the other looking to strengthen its playoff push—this matchup promises to be one to watch. The New Orleans Pelicans vs Timberwolves match player stats play a critical role in understanding how this game will unfold, especially with key players on both teams vying to make a significant impact.
In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the match preview, team statistics, and individual performances to provide a comprehensive analysis of the game. Let’s break down the important stats for both teams and examine what fans can expect from the players who will be shaping the outcome.
A Look at the Timberwolves: Key Players and Stats
The Minnesota Timberwolves (40-29) have been performing well in the Western Conference and are looking to maintain their competitive edge. To secure a victory against the Pelicans, it will be essential for their top players to perform at their best. Let’s dive into the New Orleans Pelicans vs Timberwolves match player stats with a focus on the Timberwolves’ key players.
Anthony Edwards: The Offensive Dynamo
Anthony Edwards has been the offensive leader for the Timberwolves throughout the 2024-2025 season. With an impressive 27.4 points per game, Edwards is their primary scoring threat. Along with his scoring ability, he contributes 5.9 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game. His shooting splits of 45.6% from the field and 34.1% from deep have made him a consistent offensive weapon for Minnesota.
Defensively, Edwards brings energy with 1.1 steals and 0.6 blocks per game. His all-around game has been pivotal in keeping the Timberwolves competitive, and his ability to impact both ends of the floor will be crucial in the matchup against the Pelicans.
Rudy Gobert: The Defensive Anchor
One of the best defenders in the league, Rudy Gobert continues to be the backbone of the Timberwolves’ defense. Gobert has been a dominant force in the paint, averaging 11.0 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game. His field goal percentage of 65.5% places him among the NBA’s best at finishing inside, and his elite rebounding numbers help the Timberwolves control the boards.
Gobert’s presence in the paint is key to the Timberwolves’ defensive strategy, especially when trying to contain the Pelicans’ Zion Williamson. Gobert’s shot-blocking ability, combined with his defensive instincts, will be essential in neutralizing one of the most powerful forwards in the league.
Jaden McDaniels: The Versatile Defender and Scorer
Jaden McDaniels provides a unique blend of scoring and defensive capabilities. He has averaged 12.7 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. His defensive abilities allow him to guard multiple positions, making him a valuable asset for the Timberwolves, especially against a versatile player like Zion Williamson.
McDaniels’ 34.2% shooting from three-point range helps spread the floor for the Timberwolves and creates space for their inside players like Gobert and Edwards. His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively is critical in keeping the game balanced for the Timberwolves.
The Pelicans’ Key Players: Rising Stars and Impact Players
On the other side, the New Orleans Pelicans (18-50) will look to continue developing their young core, even as they face a tough challenge against the Timberwolves. The Pelicans are still building for the future, and their key players must shine to make this a competitive matchup.
Zion Williamson: The Dominant Forward
Zion Williamson is undoubtedly the most dominant player for the Pelicans. When healthy, Williamson has shown why he is one of the most electrifying players in the NBA. Averaging 24.2 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game, Zion has the ability to control the game with his physicality. His 1.2 steals and 0.9 blocks further demonstrate his well-rounded abilities on both ends of the court.
Zion’s scoring comes mainly in the paint, where his agility and strength allow him to finish at the rim with ease. The matchup against Rudy Gobert will be crucial, as Gobert’s defense will test Zion’s ability to finish in traffic. If Williamson can outmuscle Gobert and convert on opportunities near the basket, the Pelicans could pull off an upset.
CJ McCollum: The Veteran Scorer
CJ McCollum brings veteran experience to the Pelicans, and his ability to score is crucial to their offensive strategy. Averaging 21.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game, McCollum is a reliable scorer. He shoots 44.8% from the field and 38.2% from beyond the arc, which helps stretch the defense and open lanes for his teammates.
McCollum’s ability to create his own shot and hit crucial three-pointers makes him a constant threat on offense. Against the Timberwolves’ defense, McCollum’s shooting from outside could help neutralize Minnesota’s aggressive interior defense.
Trey Murphy III: The Emerging Star
Trey Murphy III has emerged as one of the most exciting young players for the Pelicans. Averaging 21.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, Murphy has become a key contributor for New Orleans. His ability to stretch the floor with his 37.4% shooting from three-point range gives the Pelicans another scoring option.
Murphy’s versatility allows him to play both on the perimeter and inside, making him a difficult matchup for opposing defenders. His growth as a player will be pivotal in the Pelicans’ future, and his performance against the Timberwolves could be a game-changer.
Team Stats Comparison: Timberwolves vs Pelicans
To gain a clearer picture of how these two teams will match up, let’s examine the team statistics.
Timberwolves Team Stats (2024-2025 Season)
- Points per Game: 113.1 (18th in the NBA)
- Points Allowed per Game: 108.9 (6th in the NBA)
- Rebounds per Game: 44.0 (18th in the NBA)
- Three-Pointers Made per Game: 15.1 (5th in the NBA)
- Three-Point Percentage: 37.9% (5th in the NBA)
Minnesota’s offensive efficiency, particularly from beyond the arc, is one of their strongest points. They rank 5th in the NBA for three-pointers made per game, and their defense is also among the top 10, which should give them an edge over the Pelicans in this matchup.
Pelicans Team Stats (2024-2025 Season)
- Points per Game: 110.8 (23rd in the NBA)
- Points Allowed per Game: 119.0 (5th worst in the NBA)
- Rebounds per Game: 43.5 (21st in the NBA)
- Three-Pointers Made per Game: 12.2 (5th worst in the NBA)
- Three-Point Percentage: 34.9% (22nd in the NBA)
The Pelicans’ offense has struggled, especially with their three-point shooting. Ranked 5th worst in three-pointers made and 22nd in three-point percentage, the Pelicans will need to find ways to generate offense without relying too heavily on outside shooting. Their defensive weaknesses, especially in terms of points allowed, could be problematic against a high-scoring team like the Timberwolves.
How the Key Players Will Impact the Game
Zion Williamson vs Rudy Gobert: The Battle in the Paint
One of the most intriguing matchups in the New Orleans Pelicans vs Timberwolves match player stats will be the clash between Zion Williamson and Rudy Gobert. Williamson’s offensive power in the paint will be tested by Gobert’s elite defense. This battle could determine the pace of the game, as both players will look to impose their will on the other. Zion’s ability to finish through contact and Gobert’s shot-blocking ability will be crucial factors in this game.
Anthony Edwards vs CJ McCollum: Scoring Duel
Another exciting individual battle is between Anthony Edwards and CJ McCollum. Edwards has been a scoring machine for the Timberwolves, while McCollum is the primary scorer for the Pelicans. Their scoring abilities will be essential for their teams to stay competitive in what could be a high-scoring game. Whether Edwards can continue his offensive surge or if McCollum can carry the Pelicans will be one of the key storylines.
How to Watch the Game
- Date: Wednesday, March 19, 2025
- Time: 8:00 PM ET
- Location: Target Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota
- TV Channel: FDSN and Gulf Coast Sports
- Live Stream: Available via Fubo (regional restrictions may apply)
To catch the game live, fans can tune in to Fubo for a streaming experience that brings the NBA action straight to their screens. Check for availability in your area and enjoy the match from anywhere!
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