Gamethread: Pelicans’ bench needs to find rhythm against Timberwolves

There’s a strong belief that Minnesota is going to pose a bigger threat in the West this season, with Karl-Anthony Towns fully healthy both mentally and physically and Anthony Edwards already looking like a star. So far their early play has backed that theory.

The Timberwolves went 3-1 in preseason and have begun the regular season 1-0. Granted, they opened the 2021-22 campaign at home against the lowly Rockets and the exhibition games often mean very little. Positive results cannot be entirely overlooked, however, as the Pelicans can attest.

New Orleans enjoyed little success in preseason, individually and as a team, and that’s followed them into this regular season — evidenced by two double-digit defeats.

Willie Green is searching for answers to plug several holes, especially from a bench that has been outscored 80-43 by opponent reserves. The easy answer is they simply have to start playing better, but tinkering with rotations and finding successful strategies could help. Fingers crossed.

For more on today’s game, please give our preview a read. And if you missed, here’s the recap of last night’s loss to the Bulls.

Who: New Orleans Pelicans (0-2) at Minnesota Timberwolves (1-0)

When: October 23, 7:00 p.m. Central

Where to watch: Bally Sports New Orleans

Where to listen: ESPN 100.3 FM

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