New Orleans Pelicans: 3 things to watch vs. the Timberwolves

The New Orleans Pelicans hope to start the second half of the season the right way with a win over the last-place Timberwolves.

Both the Pelicans and Timberwolves probably thought they would be better than they are at this point, as both teams find themselves out of playoff contention after coming into the season with some hope and excitement.

There is still time for the Pelicans to turn their season around, through their second half schedule will not make it easy.

The Pelicans have a few weeks before the trade deadline to decide which players they are going to keep and would love to make that decision even more difficult by stringing together some wins and getting back into the playoff conversation.

Here are three things to watch as the Pels try to turn their season around in the second half, starting with Minnesota.

New Orleans Pelicans: Can the Pels beat the bad teams?

The New Orleans Pelicans have played down to the competition more times than not this season, as 12 of their 21 losses have come to teams that are below .500 including one to the lowly Timberwolves, who have only won seven games total this season.

If the New Orleans Pelicans ever want to be a good team, this has to change, as good teams beat the bad ones most of the time, it’s that simple.

The Pels have to show that they can maintain intensity and focus each and every night, which they have not. If you don’t bring it every night in the NBA, you will lose, so the Pels can’t assume wins over anyone and have to play hard even against the bottom feeders.

Let’s face it, if the Pels keep losing to teams like the Timberwolves, they aren’t going anywhere but back to the lottery.