wolves gameday

7 P.M. VS. new orleans • target ctr. • fsn, 830-am

Preview: The Wolves have lost two consecutive games by more than 20 points and have lost nine in a row at home. Against Dallas on Wednesday they set season lows in both points (75) and shooting percentage (34.8 percent). The Pelicans (21-21) are coming off a home victory against the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday. New Orleans is 10th in the Western Conference, four games out of a playoff spot.

Players to watch: C Nikola Pekovic scored 14 points in 23 minutes in his return to action after missing 31 games because of an ankle issue. F Thad Young had 14 points and 11 rebounds against Dallas. Pelicans star F Anthony Davis returned after missing three games because of a sprained toe to score 29 points with four blocks in New Orleans' victory Wednesday. G Eric Gordon had 17 points and 10 assists.

Numbers: The Pelicans won the last meeting 139-91 on Nov. 14 in New Orleans. The margin of defeat was the largest in Wolves history, and the Pelicans'66.7 shooting percentage was the highest ever by a Wolves opponent.

Injuries: Wolves G Ricky Rubio (left ankle) and F Shabazz Muhammad (oblique) are out; G Kevin Martin (wrist) is questionable. Pelicans G Jrue Holiday (right leg) is out.

kent youngblood

Pekovic