Game Thread: Pelicans’ offense and defense sit on opposite ends of spectrum ahead of matchup with Celtics

Heading into today’s matchup between the New Orleans Pelicans and Boston Celtics, there’s both good and bad news regarding the state of play during this disappointing 1-5 stretch.

Over their last six games, the Pelicans are averaging 123.3 points — 2nd in the league over this period, 27.8 assists (5th) and 13.0 turnovers (10th). They’re shooting really well from the field as evidenced by a 51.6 FG% (3rd) and a 40.0 3PT% (7th).

On the flip side of a 125.4 offensive rating (2nd), sits in incomprehensibly bad defense (130.1 defensive rating). The Pelicans are giving up 127.7 points (2nd worst) on league worst shooting percentages (54.5 FG%, 50.4 3PT%). Inside those numbers, opponents are finding success both at the rim (72.9 FG% — 4th worst) and from the corner three (56.7 3PT% — league worst) and above the break three locations (48.3 3PT% — 2nd worst).

The offense has been stellar, the defense has resembled the widest of sieves. Let’s change that tune, please?

For more information on today’s matchup, please give Jamile’s preview a read.

Who: New Orleans Pelicans (12-17) vs Boston Celtics (15-14)

When: February 21, 2:30 p.m. Central

Where to watch: ABC

Where to listen: ESPN 100.3 FM

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