Hornets beat Timberwolves 105-80 in Jefferson’s return

Thaddeus Young scores 18 in losing effort

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Gerald Henderson scored 17 points, Brian Roberts added 16 and the Hornets defeated the Timberwolves 105-80 on Monday — their seventh win in eight games.

Charlotte’s Al Jefferson returned after a nine-game absence due to a groin injury. He had eight points and five rebounds in his 25 minutes off the bench.

In all, Charlotte’s bench outscored Minnesota 52-31, including 28-3 in the pivotal first half. Reserves Gary Neal had 12 points and P.J. Hairston had 11 for Charlotte.

Thaddeus Young had 18 points to lead Minnesota, which failed in its quest to win back-to-back games for the first time this season.

Charlotte went 12 of 22 from 3-point range after making just 2 of 15 attempts Saturday against Indiana.

The Hornets jumped out to a 50-33 lead at halftime.