The Minnesota Timberwolves picked up a victory over one of the NBA’s rising stars on Tuesday night as they held on to defeat Zion Williamson and the New Orleans Pelicans 139-134.
One of the big reasons for the victory was the performance of Malik Beasley, who was just about unconscious from the field. The midseason trade acquisition went 11-for-13 on the night, leading the Wolves with 28 points and all five Minnesota starters reached double figures including D’Angelo Russell, who scored 23 points in the victory.
While the Wolves saw a great offensive output, the Pelicans made life difficult starting with their new star. Williamson was a force collecting 25 points and eight rebounds and four of the five New Orleans starters all crossed the 20-point plateau.
With James Johnson chipping in 19 points off the bench, however, the Wolves were able to open up a 135-129 lead late and after trading free throws down the stretch, they picked up a much needed victory to improve win for just the third time in their last 23 games.
