New Orleans Pelicans vs Minnesota Timberwolves Prediction, Odds & Picks | 02.06.26
Last Updated: Feb 6, 2026 1:14 AM
Friday, 06 Feb 2026
MIN -9.5
New Orleans Pelicans
L
L
L
W
L
14-40
VS
8:00 PM
Minnesota Timberwolves
W
L
W
W
W
32-21
Game Spread
MIN -9.5
Total Points
Over
236.5
Tale of the Tape
NO
Stat Comparison
MIN
119.0
PPG
115.0
39.0
RPG
47.0
29.0
APG
22.0
53.8
FG%
42.1
44.1
3P%
32.5
Detailed Analysis
New Orleans Pelicans vs Minnesota Timberwolves Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 02.06.26
The regular season brings a compelling clash to the Target Center in Minneapolis on February 6th, 2026, as the struggling New Orleans Pelicans (13-40) face off against the formidable Minnesota Timberwolves (32-20) at 8:00 PM EST. This matchup pits a team desperate for wins against a Western Conference contender aiming to solidify its playoff position.
New Orleans Pelicans vs Minnesota Timberwolves Matchup Preview
New Orleans Pelicans Key Stats & Trends
The New Orleans Pelicans have endured a challenging season, reflected in their 13-40 record. Despite their struggles, Trey Murphy III has been a consistent offensive force, averaging an impressive 22.1 points per game. His all-around impact is further highlighted by his rating of 22.1 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.6 SPG, and 0.3 BPG. Rookie Derik Queen has shown promise, leading the team in rebounds with 7.3 per game and assists with 4.3 per game, indicating his potential as a future cornerstone. However, the team’s overall defensive inefficiencies and lack of consistent secondary scoring have hampered their ability to close out games.
Injury Report New Orleans Pelicans
- Dalen Terry (Day-to-day): Terry was recently traded to the Knicks in a deal involving Jose Alvarado. His status is day-to-day.
- Hunter Dickinson (Day-to-day): Dickinson logged 12 points, five rebounds, and three assists in a recent preseason loss. He is currently day-to-day.
- Dejounte Murray (Out): Pelicans head coach James Borrego reports Murray (Achilles) is “making a lot of progress” but is not close to returning and doesn’t appear set to make his season debut soon. He is out for this game.
Minnesota Timberwolves Key Stats & Trends
The Minnesota Timberwolves have established themselves as a dominant force in the Western Conference, boasting a strong 32-20 record. Their success is largely driven by superstar Anthony Edwards, who leads the team with an elite 29.7 points per game. Edwards’ comprehensive impact is undeniable, with a rating of 29.7 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.3 SPG, and 0.8 BPG. Defensive anchor Rudy Gobert continues to dominate the glass, averaging 11.3 rebounds per game, while Julius Randle contributes significantly with 5.4 assists per game, showcasing his playmaking ability. The Timberwolves’ blend of explosive offense and stifling defense makes them a tough opponent for any team.
Injury Report Minnesota Timberwolves
- Terrence Shannon Jr. (Out): Shannon (foot) is out for Friday’s game against the Pelicans.
- Julius Randle (Day-to-day): Randle is questionable for Friday’s game against the Pelicans due to left thumb soreness.
- Julian Phillips (Day-to-day): Phillips (wrist) was recently traded to the Timberwolves from the Bulls. He is day-to-day.
- Ayo Dosunmu (Day-to-day): Dosunmu (quadriceps) was recently traded to the Timberwolves from the Bulls. He is day-to-day.
New Orleans Pelicans vs Minnesota Timberwolves Prediction & Best Bet
Considering the stark contrast in team records and overall performance, the Minnesota Timberwolves are heavily favored in this matchup. The Pelicans, with a dismal 13-40 record, are significantly outmatched by the 32-20 Timberwolves. While Minnesota faces some minor injury concerns with Randle questionable and Shannon Jr. out, the core strength of Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert should be more than enough to overwhelm a Pelicans team missing its key playmaker, Dejounte Murray. New Orleans’ defensive struggles will likely allow Edwards to have a big night, while Gobert’s presence will dominate the paint. We predict a comfortable victory for the home team.
Prediction: Minnesota Timberwolves -11.5 (Spread)
Given the offensive firepower of both teams, particularly with Edwards’ scoring prowess and the Pelicans’ defensive vulnerabilities, we anticipate a high-scoring affair. The total points line is set at 236.5.
Over/Under Pick: Over 236.5 Points
Last 5 Games: NO
Form:
LLLWL
VS
@ Milwaukee
L 141-137 OT
VS
@ Charlotte
L 102-95
VS
@ Philadelphia
L 124-114
VS
vs Memphis
W 114-106
VS
@ Oklahoma City
L 104-95
| Opponent | Result |
|---|---|
| @ Milwaukee | L 141-137 OT |
| @ Charlotte | L 102-95 |
| @ Philadelphia | L 124-114 |
| vs Memphis | W 114-106 |
| @ Oklahoma City | L 104-95 |
Last 5 Games: MIN
Form:
WLWWW
VS
@ Toronto
W 128-126
VS
@ Memphis
L 137-128
VS
@ Memphis
W 131-114
VS
vs Oklahoma City
W 123-111
VS
@ Dallas
W 118-105
| Opponent | Result |
|---|---|
| @ Toronto | W 128-126 |
| @ Memphis | L 137-128 |
| @ Memphis | W 131-114 |
| vs Oklahoma City | W 123-111 |
| @ Dallas | W 118-105 |
Written by Matt Dorsey
5 YEARS EXPERIENCE
Matt Dorsey turned his obsession with sports into a career five years ago, and he hasn't looked back. By combining a fan's passion with a veteran’s analytical eye, Matt provides reliable insights for the NBA, NHL, and NFL. He knows you’re looking for more than just a pick; you’re looking for a reason to trust the play. That’s why his work is always transparent, researched, and rooted in five years of proven results.
