wolves gameday

6 P.M. VS. Charlotte • Target Center • FSN, 830-AM

Preview: The Charlotte Hornets, on a three-game losing streak, were in 10th place in the Eastern Conference after Friday's games but just a half-game behind Indiana and Boston. So the Hornets will be motivated Sunday. The Wolves are coming off an overtime victory in New York on Thursday, which broke a six-game losing streak.

Players to watch: Wolves G Zach LaVine hit two free throws late in regulation, then scored six of his 20 points in overtime in the victory over the Knicks. G Kevin Martin has averaged 27.3 points his past three games, but he is coming off an 8-for-26 shooting night vs. the Knicks. F Chase Budinger has come off the bench to score in double figures in four straight games. With the return of Kemba Walker, former Wolves G Mo Williams has been moved to the second unit for Charlotte. In 15 games with the Hornets Williams has averaged 19.1 points and 7.3 assists. C Al Jefferson is averaging 17.2 points and 8.6 rebounds.

Numbers: The Hornets beat the Wolves by 25 points in Charlotte on Jan. 19. The Wolves' victory in New York improved the team's record to 6-14 in two-possession games.

Injuries: F Robbie Hummel (hand) and F Shabazz Muhammad (finger surgery are out. C Nikola Pekovic (ankle) is doubtful. G Ricky Rubio (ankle), C Justin Hamilton (illness) and F Kevin Garnett (knee) are questionable, and Anthony Bennett, who has missed 14 games with an ankle sprain, is out. G Gary Neal (ankle) is probable. Charlotte reports no injuries.

Kent Youngblood