Bold stat: Anthony Edwards exploded in the second half, turning a rough start into a season-high 44 points and carrying the Timberwolves to a dramatic 149-142 overtime win over the Pelicans. But here's where it gets controversial: this game spotlighted a big shift in Edwards' scoring pattern and raised questions about how Minnesota closes out tight games when a star carries the load.
In New Orleans, Edwards finished with 44 points, 34 of them coming after halftime, and he actually struggled from long range early, missing 4 of 5 three-pointers before finding his rhythm from deep in the second half. His surge included a clutch driving layup with 2.3 seconds left in regulation that forced overtime, highlighting his ability to deliver when it matters most.
Julius Randle added a pivotal contribution in the extra period, scoring eight points as Minnesota pulled away to secure the victory. The Timberwolves built on strong performances across the roster, with Rudy Gobert tallying 26 points and 13 rebounds, including three dunks in overtime, and Jaden McDaniels contributing 17 points. Randle contributed 16 for Minnesota, and the team notched its third consecutive win.
For New Orleans, six players reached double figures, led by Trey Murphy III with 33 points. Saddiq Bey added 22, and Derik Queen and rookie Jeremiah Fears each had 21, but the Pelicans couldn’t sustain momentum to close out the game. New Orleans, facing the league’s basement record at 3-19, has dropped 13 of its last 14 games. The Pelicans also played the 12th of 23 games without Zion Williamson, who sat with a right adductor strain after averaging 22.1 points and 5.6 rebounds in his 10 active appearances this season.
Key momentum swings included a 15-0 burst by New Orleans late in the second quarter, turning a 55-53 deficit into a 68-55 lead. Bey sparked the run with seven points and Murphy added five, contributing 11 of his 15 first-half points in the second period as the Pelicans outscored Minnesota 43-27 in that frame.
Looking ahead, New Orleans will try to rebound as they host Minnesota again on Thursday night, seeking to level the season series and gain some footing in a difficult stretch.
Would you argue that Edwards’ late-game burst proves he’s a true closer, or does relying on a singular offensive star risk destabilizing a team's overall offensive balance in playoff-minded games? Share your thoughts in the comments.
