Edwards' 44 Points Lift Timberwolves Over Pelicans in OT Thriller

Timberwolves Survive Pelicans' Late Surge in High-Scoring Overtime Battle

In a clash between playoff hopefuls and the NBA's cellar-dwellers, the Minnesota Timberwolves outlasted the New Orleans Pelicans 149-142 in overtime on December 2, 2025. Anthony Edwards delivered a career-defining performance with a season-high 44 points, including a clutch driving layup with 2.3 seconds remaining in regulation to force extra time.

Edwards Ignites Second-Half Comeback

Despite struggling from beyond the arc early (missing 4 of 5 first-half threes), Edwards erupted in the second half, scoring 34 of his 44 points. He connected on 5 of 8 three-pointers after halftime and capped off his night with the game-tying layup against Jose Alvarado. "I just trusted my teammates and kept attacking," Edwards said postgame. "We needed this win on the road."

Timberwolves Dominate Overtime Behind Randle and Gobert

While Edwards secured regulation, it was Julius Randle who sealed the victory in overtime, scoring eight crucial points. Rudy Gobert provided a defensive anchor with 26 points and 13 rebounds, including three thunderous dunks that stretched Minnesota's lead. Jaden McDaniels added 17 points as the Wolves secured their third consecutive victory.

Pelicans Show Fight Despite League-Worst Record

New Orleans (3-19), missing Zion Williamson to a right adductor strain, displayed remarkable resilience. Trey Murphy III led all scorers with 33 points, while Saddiq Bey (22 points) and rookies Derik Queen (21 points) and Jeremiah Fears (21 points) each reached the 20-point plateau. The Pelicans' 15-0 second-quarter run briefly gave them control, but their inability to score in the final 1:03 of regulation proved costly.

"We fought hard, but we can't leave points on the board like that," Pelicans coach Willie Green lamented. "Every possession matters when you're in a playoff race."

What's Next? Rematch Looms Large

The Timberwolves will face the Pelicans again on Thursday, December 4, in a back-to-back matchup at Smoothie King Center. Minnesota aims to continue their momentum, while New Orleans desperately needs to snap a 13-of-14 losing streak. Williamson's status for the rematch remains uncertain as the Pelicans attempt to salvage their season.

Key Takeaways

• Anthony Edwards' 44 points marked his highest output of the season
• Minnesota's third-quarter 42-point explosion turned the tide
• Pelicans' six double-digit scorers couldn't overcome defensive lapses
• Gobert's 26 points/13 rebounds represented his most efficient offensive output