Minnesota Timberwolves opened the 2026 Las Vegas Summer League with a 105‑92 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans, thanks to Zyon Pullin’s 24 points, eight rebounds and 12 assists.
How did the game unfold?
The Wolves and Pelicans traded leads early, with New Orleans taking a 25‑24 edge after the first quarter. Minnesota answered with a 22‑21 advantage in the second, leaving the teams dead‑locked at 46‑46 at halftime. The third quarter stayed tight, but the Wolves nudged ahead 72‑71 heading into the final period. A 7‑0 run to start the fourth stretched the lead, and Minnesota outscored New Orleans 33‑21 in the last ten minutes to seal the win.
Who were the standout performers?
Zyon Pullin flirted with a triple‑double, posting 24 points, eight boards and 12 dimes. Off the bench, Nate Santos added 20 points while shooting 5‑for‑8 from beyond the arc. Joan Beringer contributed an 18‑point, 12‑rebound double‑double in just 25 minutes. Five Wolves logged double‑digit scoring, and the team shot 45.3% from the field and 40.0% from three‑point range.
What did the Pelicans do?
Kobe Bufkin led New Orleans with 30 points and six rebounds. Markquis Nowell chipped in 20 points, four rebounds and six assists, while Micah Peavy added 16 points, five assists and two steals. The Pelicans shot 41.0% overall and 42.4% from three, but couldn’t match Minnesota’s late surge.
What’s next for both clubs?
The Wolves will face the Denver Nuggets later Saturday at the Pavilion (7:30 ET, Prime Video). The Pelicans travel to the Thomas & Mack Center to meet the Charlotte Hornets (4 ET, ESPN). The Wolves entered the Summer League after a 109‑139 loss to the San Antonio Spurs on May 16, 2026, and a recent 1‑W‑0‑D‑4‑L stretch, so this win offers a timely morale boost.