NBA picks: Timberwolves vs. Pelicans prediction, odds, over/under, spread, injury report for Monday, Dec. 11

This week’s NBA schedule will tip-off with a Western Conference showdown Monday as the Minnesota Timberwolves continues its quick three-game road trip when visiting the New Orleans Pelicans at 8 p.m. ET.

Minnesota (17-4) is riding a six-game win streak and still boasts the best record in the league heading into tonight’s showdown. The Wolves were last seen burying the Grizzlies in a 127-103 road win on Friday, a game where Rudy Gobert had 16 points, 20 rebounds, and six blocks. Meanwhile, New Orleans (12-11) was last seen getting roasted by the Lakers in a 133-89 blowout in the NBA In-Season Tournament semifinals last Thursday. The Pels actually led after the first quarter before the wheels fell off and their poor performance has kicked up another round of discourse surrounding Zion Williamson as the leader of this franchise.

On the injury front, both Anthony Edwards (hip pointer) and Jaden McDaniels (ankle) are listed as questionable for the Wolves. For the Pelicans, Matt Ryan (elbow) will miss his fourth straight game.

New Orleans enters the game as a 4-point favorite at DraftKings Sportsbook, accompanied by a total of 222.5. The Pelicans are listed as a -166 moneyline favorite, making the Timberwolves a +140 underdog.

Timberwolves vs. Pelicans, 8 p.m. ET

Pick ATS: Pelicans -4

Williamson and the Pelicans have taken tons of grief in the media following Thursday’s semifinals and I think they’ll come out extra motivated for tonight’s matchup. They are 9-3 against the spread at home this season and there’s an opportunity for them to take advantage of a Wolves team that won’t have a 100% Edwards on the court tonight.

Over/Under: Over 222.5

With both teams are averaging roughly 113 points per game and with a few days off heading into this contest, they should be able to either match or surpass their season totals. Take the over.