NBA: One team every playoff favorite should want to avoid in the first round

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OAKLAND, CA – JANUARY 25: Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the Minnesota Timberwolves shoots over Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors at ORACLE Arena on January 25, 2018 in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

Minnesota Timberwolves

Who they should want to avoid in the first round: New Orleans Pelicans

Interestingly, the Minnesota Timberwolves have absolutely handled the New Orleans Pelicans this season. So I understand why you’d question this pairing. Although, all four of their meetings took place before February.

Since Feb 10, the Pelicans are 16-4. Their recent tear didn’t start until after these two teams had already concluded their season series. Both teams are different at the moment. The Wolves don’t have Jimmy Butler – and he may or may not return for the playoffs – and the Pelicans are red-hot.

And the Pelicans have a star that can absolutely takeover a series. And as talented as Minnesota is, they simply don’t have a player on the same level as Anthony Davis right now.

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