Photo by Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns scores two of his game-high 25 points against the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday, October 23, 2021, at the Target Center.

Guard D’Angelo Russell’s clutch play in the final minutes, and 25 points from center Karl-Anthony Towns in 29 minutes of play led the Minnesota Timberwolves (2-0) to a 96-89 NBA victory over the New Orleans Pelicans (0-3) at the Target Center on Saturday, October 23, 2021.

The victory offset an outstanding 30-point performance by Pelicans forward Brandon Ingram.

Guard Anthony Edwards had 19 points and Russell and forward Naz Reid each chipped in 12 for Minnesota.

Joanas Valanciunas had 20 points and 14 rebounds, Nickeil Alexander-Walker had 14 points and 14 boards and Devonte Graham added 11 for New Orleans.