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Even though the Pelicans are red hot right now, led by potential MVP Anthony Davis and career-year Jrue Holiday, this is still the NBA and any team can beat any team any night — Well, any team not avidly tanking for lottery balls.
Tuesday’s matchup features a date against the Los Angeles Clippers and will be another test for New Orleans. The Pelicans (36-26) sit 4th in the Western Conference, a game behind the Portland Trailblazers, and the Clippers (34-28) sit a half game out of the playoffs.
The season is winding down and the Western Conference is as competitive as it has ever been with 2.5 games separating the #3 and #9 seeds. So, every game from here to the end of the season is a key matchup, especially when it comes against the aforementioned 9-seed in the middle of a four-game road trip.
Let’s look into what may be the difference from a nine-game winning streak and starting another one from scratch. Hopefully my first preview of the streak doesn’t mess this up, and if it does I accept all responsibility and any corresponding consequences.
Key Matchup
Lou Williams is a surefire lock for Sixth Man of the Year. Bet your house on it. New Orleans bench has a tall task of not allowing Sweet Lou to start rolling and attempting to match the point total of Anthony Davis or Jrue Holiday, or gasp, both.
(**Disclaimer** I am not responsible for any losses that you may suffer should Lou Will not win the award.)
Point of Interest
With Danillo Gallinari out with a hand fracture, it is likely that Wesley Johnson will fill in as a starting forward alongside Tobias Harris. It should be Alvin Gentry’s prime objective to get the pick-and-roll flowing tonight!
Though Gallinari was never the most capable defender in the league, his 6’10 225lb frame could help him switch onto the league MVP (let’s make AD happen) more effectively than Wesley Johnson, who stands shorter and lighter. If the Pelicans can force DeAndre Jordan to switch on screens, the Pelicans should reap the benefits of the mismatch and cruise to another win on the road.
How the Pelicans Win
1. Screens, and a lot of them.
2. Solid bench play.
3. Keep up the swagger and momentum. I love the Ian Clark taking popcorn mid-game version of this team!
Gametime
Tuesday’s contest will tip at 9:30 PM Central on TNT. Check back with us after the contest for the game recap!
Geaux Pelicans Geaux!
What: New Orleans Pelicans at Los Angeles Clippers
Where: Staples Center
When: March 6, 2018, 9:30 PM Central
How: TNT, WRNO 99.5 FM