wolves/nba

wolves gameday

6 P.M. VS NEW ORLEANS • TARGET CENTER • FSN, 830-AM

Preview: The Wolves, losers of 26 of their past 32 games, had a 20-point lead early in the third quarter in Houston on Friday, only to lose 108-100. Minnesota will try to regroup against the Hornets, whose .333 winning percentage is tied for the worst in the Western Conference.

Players to watch: Wolves F Mickael Gelabale is coming off a 10-point, seven-rebound, five-assist performance in Houston. J.J. Barea hit on eight of 12 shots for 19 points vs. the Rockets. F Derrick Williams has scored in double figures in 11 consecutive games. C Greg Stiemsma has seven blocks in his past three games. Hornets G Eric Gordon has scored 44 points in his past two games.

Numbers: Minnesota has won two of three games vs. New Orleans, including a 115-86 victory Feb. 2 at Target Center that marked the Wolves’ biggest margin of victory this season. The Wolves’ bench scored 68 points in that game. New Orleans, is 24th in the league in scoring (94.3). But the Hornets are eighth in three-point shooting percentage (36.8). Both teams have 22 victories. Minnesota is 3-7 in its past 10, New Orleans 2-8. Both teams allow 98 points per game. New Orleans is 10-24 on the road.

Injuries: Wolves F Kevin Love (hand surgery), F Chase Budinger (knee surgery), G Malcolm Lee (knee and hip surgery) and G Brandon Roy (right knee) are out. F Andrei Kirilenko (calf) and C Nikola Pekovic (abdominal strain) are doubtful. Hornets F/C Jason Smith (torn right labrum) and G Austin Rivers (right hand) are out.

KENT YOUNGBLOOD