The Minnesota Timberwolves should consider themselves lucky that the Cleveland Cavaliers are out there. Not only have the Cavs given the Timberwolves two of their 11 victories this season, but they recently set the record for longest losing streak in NBA history with their 24th consecutive loss. They're just about the only thing in the NBA right now that keeps everyone from more actively talking about just how bad the Minnesota Timberwolves are.
But, the Wolves have four games this week to improve their standing in the NBA. . .or to get worse. You know, whichever is easier for them.
The week gets underway tonight with a trip to Bourbon Street to take on the New Orleans Hornets. The Hornets are currently in third place in the NBA's Southwest Division with a record of 32-20, which is markedly better than Minnesota's current 11-39 mark. These two teams have only gotten together once this season and, surprisingly, the Timberwolves came away with a 113-98 victory at the Target Center back on December 27. But, again, that game was in Minneapolis. . .this one will be away from the comfy confines of the Target Center. Game time is set for 7:00 PM Central time.
Minnesota follows that up on Tuesday night with a trip to take on the Houston Rockets. The Rockets are currently in last place in the Southwest Division, but their 24-28 record shows just how big the disparity between themselves and the Wolves is, despite both being last-place clubs. These two teams have played twice this year, and the Rockets came out on top both times. . .the first victory being a 120-94 blowout in Houston on November 7, and the second being a 129-125 victory in Minneapolis on January 24. The opening tip for this one is scheduled for 7:30 PM Central time.
After a couple of days off, the Wolves will take to the court again on Friday night as they travel to Indiana for their first meeting of the season with the Pacers. The Pacers are currently one of the league's hottest teams, but still only have a record of 21-27. . .putting them in second place in the NBA's Central Division. The start time for this one is a little earlier than normal, with things getting underway at Indianapolis at 6:00 PM Central time.
Finally, the week concludes on Saturday night in Minneapolis, as the Wolves welcome the Philadelphia 76ers to town. The Sixers are currently in third place in the NBA's Atlantic Division with a 23-27 record. These two teams have also not played one another yet this season. Game time at the Target Center is set for 7:00 PM Central time.
Television coverage of all of these games will be provided by Fox Sports North, with the exception of the Saturday night game, which will not have any local television coverage. You can also listen to all of these games on the radio by tuning your AM dial to KFAN-AM 1130.