Wolves-New Orleans game preview

Preview: The Wolves, losers of two in a row and four of five, and New Orleans, with G Chris Paul gone to L.A. and G Eric Gordon hurt, have identical 3-7 records.

Players to watch: Timberwolves G Luke Ridnour has averaged 16 points and shot 66.7 percent from the field in the past three games. F Kevin Love leads the NBA in rebounding (14.7) and is sixth in scoring (23.6). G Ricky Rubio is fifth among rookies in scoring (10.2) and first in assists (7.9) and minutes (29.0). The Hornets are led by F Carl Landry (15.2 points, 5.9 rebounds), G Jarrett Jack (14.9 points, 7.9 assists) and F/C Chris Kaman (11.7 points, 7.9 rebounds).

Numbers: Rubio is a team-best plus-52 (Wolves' points for vs. points against when he is on the floor), while Wes Johnson is a minus-62. The Wolves also started 3-7 last season. The Hornets have held nine of 10 opponents under 100 points.

Injuries: Wolves G J.J. Barea (ankle) and F Michael Beasley (foot) are out. For New Orleans, Gordon (knee) is out.