The Minnesota Timberwolves triumphed over the New Orleans Pelicans with a score of 104-97 on Tuesday night, a game marked by Zion Williamson’s impressive return after a lengthy absence due to injury.

Anthony Edwards starred for the Timberwolves, scoring 32 points and netting seven 3-pointers, helping to diminish the excitement surrounding Williamson’s comeback.

Despite undergoing a 27-game hiatus due to a left hamstring strain, Williamson managed to contribute 22 points, along with six rebounds, four assists, three steals, and a block in just 27 minutes played.

Former Pelican Julius Randle added 16 points while ex-LSU standout Naz Reid tallied 13 points and 12 rebounds. The Timberwolves maintained control for the majority of the game, leading by as much as 13 points.

Rudy Gobert also had a solid outing, featuring 14 rebounds and six blocks.

Meanwhile, for the Pelicans, Dejounte Murray led the scores with 29 points. However, CJ McCollum struggled with his shooting, ending the game with just one basket from fourteen attempts.

Key Observations

• Timberwolves: Donte DiVincenzo took over at point guard for a second consecutive night, filling in for Mike Conley, who has rarely come off the bench. DiVincenzo scored 10 points, while Conley managed eight.

• Pelicans: The duo of Williamson and Murray showed early promise, especially with Murray’s steals leading to several breakaway dunks by Williamson, including one impressive 360-degree jam.

Significant Moment

Edwards sparked a crucial 19-2 run in the third quarter, hitting a free throw and two 3-pointers, which swung the game’s momentum back in favor of the Timberwolves, who subsequently did not trail again.

Next Matches

The Timberwolves will head to Orlando on Thursday while the Pelicans will host Portland on Wednesday.