The Minnesota Timberwolves are preparing for their final regular-season game against the New Orleans Pelicans, a matchup that sees both teams with differing stakes. The Timberwolves have already secured their playoff berth as the sixth seed in the Western Conference, leading them to rest key players in anticipation of the postseason. In contrast, the Pelicans' season has been turbulent, marked by a coaching change and questions surrounding star player Zion Williamson's future, as they look towards the next season.
Timberwolves and Pelicans Face Off in Regular Season Finale Amidst Roster Adjustments
On Sunday night, April 11, 2026, the Minnesota Timberwolves will host the New Orleans Pelicans in Minneapolis for their final regular-season contest. The Timberwolves (48-33) have cemented their position as the No. 6 seed in the Western Conference playoffs, ensuring they will begin their postseason journey on the road against either the Denver Nuggets or the Los Angeles Lakers. The Nuggets can secure the No. 3 seed by defeating the San Antonio Spurs or if the Lakers fall to the Utah Jazz. Should the Nuggets lose and the Lakers win, Los Angeles will claim the No. 3 spot, setting up a playoff clash with Minnesota.
Both teams will be operating with significantly shortened rosters. The Timberwolves have ruled out their leading scorer, Anthony Edwards, for right knee injury maintenance, alongside Rudy Gobert (rest), Jaden McDaniels (left knee injury maintenance), Julius Randle (right hand injury maintenance), and Ayo Dosunmu (right calf injury maintenance). For the Pelicans (26-55), who are out of playoff contention, Zion Williamson will be sidelined due to a right knee injury. Other notable absences for New Orleans include Herbert Jones (rest), Saddiq Bey (rest), Trey Murphy III (right ankle sprain), and Dejounte Murray (bruised left hand).
Amidst these absences, second-year guard Terrence Shannon Jr. of the Timberwolves is looking to maintain his impressive scoring streak. He recently scored 33 points against the Orlando Magic and followed up with 23 points in the game against the Houston Rockets. Coach Chris Finch praised Shannon's dedication and improved offensive game, noting his confidence and ability to drive to the paint, not just rely on jumpers. For the Pelicans, rookie Micah Peavy aims to conclude his season strongly. Interim coach James Borrego commended Peavy's team contributions and defensive prowess, highlighting his impact beyond scoring.
This final regular-season game offers a glimpse into the depth of both teams. For the Timberwolves, it's an opportunity to fine-tune strategies and allow their less experienced players to gain valuable court time before the intense playoff battles. For the Pelicans, it's a chance for emerging talents to showcase their abilities and build momentum as they contemplate significant roster decisions for the upcoming season, particularly concerning the future of their star, Zion Williamson. The game underscores the dynamic nature of NBA seasons, where outcomes can shift dramatically, and every performance, even in a resting game, holds potential significance for player development and team direction.
