In an exhilarating comeback, the New Orleans Pelicans managed to triumph over the Minnesota Timberwolves with a score of 119-115, erasing an 18-point deficit in the second half. The standout performance came from Saddiq Bay, who not only scored 30 points but also hit two crucial free throws with just 10.8 seconds left on the clock, sealing the victory for the Pelicans.
Zion Williamson was another key contributor, adding 29 points to the total, while Trey Murphy III chipped in with 26 points, helping the Pelicans break a three-game losing streak.
The game reached a critical moment when the Timberwolves briefly seized a one-point lead thanks to a three-pointer from Bones Hyland with only 50 seconds remaining. But Williamson swiftly countered by converting a three-point play, pushing the Pelicans ahead 117-115 with 35.5 seconds on the clock.
In a tense final minute, Anthony Edwards attempted to tie the game but his shot was unsuccessful. Bay secured the rebound, only to be fouled by Julius Randle, which sent him to the free-throw line. Edwards had an impressive outing, scoring 35 points, including 23 in the first half, but it wasn’t enough to clinch the win. Randle contributed 24 points, while Rudy Gobert demonstrated his prowess on the boards with 16 rebounds alongside his own 12 points.
Notably, Pelicans rookie Derik Queen emerged as a surprise asset, finishing the game with 17 points and hitting all four of his three-point attempts. Prior to this game, he had only made ten three-pointers all season, showcasing his potential as a valuable player.
The Timberwolves initially led the game confidently, holding a significant 77-59 advantage early in the third quarter. However, that lead rapidly diminished. Murphy's back-to-back three-pointers late in the third quarter helped pull the Pelicans closer, and Bay’s five consecutive points ultimately tied the game at 102 during the fourth quarter.
Compounding Minnesota's struggles, Jaden McDaniels faced foul trouble throughout the match, picking up his third foul early in the second quarter and a fourth foul shortly after halftime. This predicament forced coach Chris Finch to experiment with various lineups, even giving seldom-used Johnny Juzang a rare 10 minutes on the court.
The Pelicans’ success was largely attributed to their ability to dominate in the paint, where Williamson excelled, making 11 of his 13 shots, all taken in the post area.
Looking ahead, the Pelicans will host the Sacramento Kings on Monday, while the Timberwolves will prepare to face the Los Angeles Clippers at home on Sunday.
