Timberwolves Host Struggling Hornets: A Chance for Redemption

With the Timberwolves' strong defense and the Hornets' recent struggles, both teams look to this game as a pivotal moment in their season.

The Minnesota Timberwolves are set to host the Charlotte Hornets, with the Timberwolves leading the league in defensive ratings this season, largely due to Rudy Gobert anchoring their defense.
The Hornets, despite a resounding win against the Spurs, have struggled this season, particularly with their below-par defense.
Key players to watch include Anthony Edwards for the Timberwolves, who is averaging a team-high 25.9 points per game this season, and LaMelo Ball for the Hornets, leading with 25.1 points per game, though he is questionable due to ankle soreness.
The Timberwolves are looking to bounce back from a recent loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, while the Hornets are seeking to improve upon a poor start to the season, having lost 31 of 40 games.
This is the second and final meeting of the regular season between the Timberwolves and Hornets, with Minnesota having won the first game 123-117 on Dec. 2 in Charlotte.