Wolves-New Orleans game preview

Preview: The Timberwolves, having won two in a row for the first time since Dec. 20, have another opportunity to show how much they have improved. They held a 17-point lead at New Orleans on Jan. 19 before the Pelicans rallied for a 114-99 victory. The Pelicans have lost four consecutive games and are 5-19 on the road. A victory would match the Wolves' longest winning streak of the season, accomplished against Philadelphia, Atlanta and Sacramento in late November.

Players to watch: Wolves C Karl-Anthony Towns had 26 points and a career-high 17 rebounds Saturday against Chicago, one of the league's best rebounding teams. F Gorgui Dieng had a career-high 24 points with 13 rebounds and seven assists. In the past four home games, Dieng, Towns, Andrew Wiggins and Zach LaVine have all shot 54.8 percent or better. Pelicans F Anthony Davis had 35 points, seven rebounds and two blocks vs. the Wolves Jan. 19. G Jrue Holiday had 19 and nine assists.

Numbers: The Wolves have shot 50 percent or better in three straight games for the first time since March 2013. They also have won the rebounding battle in four straight games.

Injuries: Wolves F Kevin Garnett (knee) and C Nikola Pekovic (foot) are doubtful. G Kevin Martin (wrist) is questionable. New Orleans F Quincy Pondexter (knee, G Eric Gordon (finger) and G Tyreke Evans (knee) are out.