Timberwolves (18-42), Pelicans (26-35)
Pelicans implode on defense against Timberwolves, fall 4 games back of 8th seed
The last time the Pelicans played the Timberwolves, they were mired in their worst tailspin in team history. They were losers of 13 straight, a franchise record, and their season was in danger of careening off the rails entirely. But Dec. 18, New Orleans responded by grinding out a road win in Minnesota, and in the 2½ months since, has done enough to creep back into the postseason picture.
Kushner: Pelicans can't afford dumbfounding losses like Tuesday's against Timberwolves
The New Orleans Pelicans can make the playoffs by exclusively beating losing teams.