For just the sixth time this season, Elfrid Payton will appear in a game for the New Orleans Pelicans. Yes, that’s a depressing thought considering we’re nearly half way through the regular season schedule, but hey, he’s back!
According to Alvin Gentry, Payton will jump right into the starting lineup, but don’t expect him to carry a full load immediately.
The New Orleans head coach also mentioned to pregame media that Nikola Mirotic is getting close to a return.
As for the Timberwolves, they’ll be without their top two options at point guard: Jeff Teague and Derrick Rose.