Timberwolves' Reserves Shine in Final Game, Defeat Pelicans

Minnesota's young players and bench unit lead the way in 132-126 victory over New Orleans.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 8:55am

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting a basketball game, with the players' forms broken down into abstract shapes and planes of color, the court and arena fading into the background.The Timberwolves' reserves showcase their skills in a cubist-inspired illustration of the team's final regular season victory.New Orleans Today

In their final regular season game, the Minnesota Timberwolves relied on their reserves and young players to defeat the New Orleans Pelicans 132-126. Rookie big man Joan Beringer led the way with 24 points and 13 rebounds, while Terrence Shannon Jr. scored 26 points. The Timberwolves were without several key starters, including Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, and Rudy Gobert, allowing their bench unit to shine in the victory.

Why it matters

The Timberwolves' ability to win with their reserves showcases the team's depth and development of young talent, which could be crucial as they prepare for the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Pelicans' loss solidifies their position outside the postseason, despite strong performances from Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen.

The details

The Timberwolves led by as many as 14 points in the game, thanks to big nights from Beringer, Shannon Jr., Zyon Pullin, and Joe Ingles. The Pelicans made a late push, led by Fears' 36 points, but Minnesota held on for the victory. Both teams rested several key starters, allowing younger and reserve players to get extended minutes in the regular season finale.

  • The game was played on Sunday, April 13, 2026.

The players

Joan Beringer

A rookie big man for the Minnesota Timberwolves who scored 24 points and grabbed 13 rebounds in the win.

Terrence Shannon Jr.

A Timberwolves player who scored 26 points in the victory.

Jeremiah Fears

A Pelicans player who scored a game-high 36 points in the loss.

Derik Queen

A Pelicans player who finished with 30 points and 22 rebounds in the game.

Anthony Edwards

A key starter for the Timberwolves who sat out the game due to right knee inflammation.

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What they’re saying

“It was great to see our young guys step up and make an impact in the final game. They showed a lot of heart and energy out there.”

— Chris Finch, Timberwolves Head Coach

What’s next

The Timberwolves will face the Denver Nuggets in the first round of the NBA playoffs, while the Pelicans' season has come to an end.

The takeaway

The Timberwolves' ability to win with their reserves demonstrates the team's depth and development of young talent, which could be a valuable asset as they enter the postseason. Meanwhile, the Pelicans' struggles to secure a playoff spot highlight the need for the team to continue building around their core players in the offseason.