Minnesota Timberwolves

Wolves' Butler, Gibson have history of success vs. Pelicans

Published Nov. 29, 2017 2:37 p.m. ET

The New Orleans Pelicans have had the Minnesota Timberwolves' number over the last decade, but a pair of former Chicago Bulls are here to help.

The Pelicans have 28 wins against the Wolves since the 2005-06 season -- their most against a single opponent -- but Jimmy Butler and Taj Gibson have spent the past few seasons clipping their wings.

Butler has won seven games in a row against New Orleans, averaging 25.6 points per game, including a 23-point effort in the Wolves' win over the Pelicans earlier this month.

Gibson has won his last six against the Pelicans, notching a double-double in his first meeting with New Orleans as a member of the Wolves.

Point guard Jeff Teague could be back in the lineup Wednesday night after missing two games with an Achilles injury, but Minnesota native Tyus Jones has shined in his place.

Jones made his first career start Sunday for the Wolves -- racking up seven steals -- and now has 20 assists and 12 steals over his last three games.

He's just the sixth Wolves player to do it, joining Ricky Rubio, Terrell Brandon, Kevin Garnett, Michael Williams and Pooh Richardson.

Statistics courtesy of STATS