Timberwolves Welcome Back Garnett, Beat Pelicans in Regular-Season Finale

Franchise icon makes special appearance as Minnesota rests starters ahead of playoffs

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:56am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game, with sharp, overlapping planes of color and form representing the dynamic action on the court.Garnett's emotional return to the Timberwolves' home court symbolizes the franchise's storied history and bright future.New Orleans Today

The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 132-126 in the regular-season finale, with franchise legend Kevin Garnett making a special appearance for fan appreciation night. The Timberwolves rested most of their starters, giving extended playing time to reserves like Joe Ingles and rookie Joan Beringer, who had a standout performance. The Pelicans, already eliminated from playoff contention, got strong games from Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen.

Why it matters

Garnett's return to Target Center was a significant moment for Timberwolves fans, as the Hall of Famer had a falling out with the previous team ownership. His jersey retirement ceremony is planned for a later date, further cementing his legacy with the franchise. The game also provided an opportunity for younger Timberwolves players to get extended playing time ahead of the playoffs.

The details

With the Timberwolves locked into the No. 6 seed in the Western Conference, the team rested nine of their top 10 players for the regular-season finale. This allowed fan favorite Joe Ingles to make a token start, and rookie forward Joan Beringer to shine with 24 points, 12 rebounds, and 7 blocks. The Pelicans, who were already eliminated from playoff contention, got strong performances from Jeremiah Fears (36 points, 10 rebounds) and Derik Queen (30 points, 22 rebounds).

  • The Timberwolves (49-33) played their regular-season finale on Sunday, April 13, 2026.
  • Garnett, who had a falling out with previous owner Glen Taylor, reached an agreement last year to serve as an ambassador for the Timberwolves.

The players

Kevin Garnett

A Hall of Fame forward and the all-time franchise leader for the Timberwolves in nearly every major statistical category. Garnett made a special appearance for fan appreciation night, receiving a roar from the crowd as he walked onto the court.

Anthony Edwards

The current star player for the Timberwolves, who greeted Garnett with a bear hug when he entered the arena.

Joan Beringer

A rookie forward for the Timberwolves who had an outstanding performance in the regular-season finale, scoring 24 points with 12 rebounds and 7 blocks.

Jeremiah Fears

A player for the Pelicans who had 36 points and 10 rebounds in the game.

Derik Queen

A Pelicans player who had 30 points and a career-high 22 rebounds in the game.

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What’s next

The Pelicans don't have a first-round pick in the draft this year, and their first offseason priority is naming a new head coach after firing Willie Green earlier in the season. The Timberwolves will play the No. 3 seed Nuggets in a first-round playoff series starting in Denver on Saturday.

The takeaway

Garnett's return to the Timberwolves was a heartwarming moment for the franchise and its fans, as the team celebrated the legacy of one of its all-time greats. Despite resting their starters, the Timberwolves were still able to secure a victory, showcasing the depth of their roster and providing valuable playing time for younger players ahead of the playoffs.