New Orleans’ starting lineup and rotation had a new look Monday, with Willy Hernangomez taking over the backup center role and Garrett Temple moving into the starting lineup. Although Hernangomez produced positive results in his first major action of the season, the Pelicans couldn’t overcome a subpar shooting night overall and too many turnovers.
Minnesota limited New Orleans to just 40 points in the middle quarters, rolling to its fourth straight win. The Pelicans hovered around or below 40 percent from the field much of the night and struggled from three-point range.
IT WAS OVER WHEN…
New Orleans only scored nine points in the first nine minutes of the third quarter, allowing Minnesota to build an 84-59 lead.