MINNEAPOLIS (Interstat) — The Minnesota Timberwolves, holding firm in the Western Conference playoff picture, host the struggling New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night at Target Center. Minnesota (31-20) looks to rebound after a high-scoring 137-128 road loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday. Anthony Edwards continues to carry the offensive load, averaging 31.7 points over his last 10 games, including a 39-point performance in the loss to Memphis. The Timberwolves have won three of their last five. The Pelicans (13-39) arrive with the league’s second-worst record, having lost 10 of their last 13 games. They are coming off a 102-95 defeat in Charlotte on Monday. Rookie center Derik Queen, a player to watch, is coming off one of his best performances of the season with 16 points and eight rebounds in that loss. Over his last five games, Queen is averaging 12.0 points, 7.6 rebounds and 3.0 assists. This will be the third meeting between the teams this season. Minnesota won both prior matchups in New Orleans in early December, 149-142 and 125-116, showcasing a potent offense against the Pelicans’ defense. For the Timberwolves, maintaining their defensive intensity will be key against a Pelicans team that has shown sporadic offensive bursts. Edwards’ scoring prowess will be matched against a New Orleans defense ranking near the bottom of the league. The Pelicans will need a significant performance from Queen inside and efficient nights from wings Trey Murphy III and Herb Jones to compete on the road. New Orleans has not won consecutive games since late December. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. CST at Target Center. The Timberwolves host the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday, while the Pelicans return home to face the Sacramento Kings on Monday.