The New Orleans Pelicans (33-22) may be without an important piece. Although they are sitting strong in the Western Conference, they can’t afford to give up too many games in the standings. This remains unwelcome news, especially with the higher overall quality of teams in the West compared to the East. However, they rank sixth in the better conference, while only being six games back of the leaders.
But they need key players at the top of their rotation. Their stars are stars for a reason, although others can step up. And missing any key piece, just like any team, severely limits their ceiling.
Do you see this roster being able to make noise in the playoffs this year, or are they a year away?
New Orleans Pelicans Potential Game-Time Decision
Brandon Ingram missed Wednesday’s practice with an illness. They consider him a game-time decision at this moment. Although they play a weaker Houston Rockets team, as mentioned, they don’t want to drop an easier game.
Additionally, the Rockets have been sneaky tough against many opponents. Five of their last six road losses were within single digits. Therefore, even as favorites, according to DraftKings SportsBook, missing Ingram could spell trouble.
Jordan Hawkins and Trey Murphy expect to see increased playing time without Ingram in the lineup. But the team continues to hold out hope that he recovers in time and can be a full go for their matchup. While a loss isn’t crippling, it’s the first game since the All-Star Break. Therefore, getting off to a good start and keeping pace with the rest of the West remains important.
New Orleans Pelicans With Ingram
At full health, the New Orleans Pelicans can compete with any team on any given night. What’s even more impressive is how identical their home and away records are. In fact, playing away from the Smooth King Center they have a 17-12 record. However, they possess a 16-10 record in their building.
But the availability remains the largest question mark of this team. Especially with Zion Williamson. His explosive plays without him would be tremendously missed. But the playmaking and versatility of Ingram are essential as well. In other words, both former Duke Blue Devils are needed if this group is going to make a run in the postseason.
New Orleans Pelicans Without Ingram
As mentioned, you need to expect to see more of Hawkins and Murphy if Ingram is unable to play against the Rockets. As is, Murphy averages 12.3 points per contest. However, he recently had a 24-point night against the Portland Trailblazers with 30 minutes of playing time. Therefore you can expect similar output should his minutes go up.
Additionally, Hawkins shoots 38.1% from three-point range. With extended time and more looks, he should be able to contribute from range. Regardless, both players a nice role players for this team. But with more playing time, they should both at least lessen the loss of Ingram.
The New Orleans Pelicans hope to take that next step. The franchise has not seen the post-season since their first-round exit in the 2021-2022 season. Even if they manage to get in, they’ll want to perform better than what they did in their series lost to the Phoenix Suns.
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Gabriel Enjoys all things sports! Football, soccer, basketball, volleyball. You name it! Huge fan of the Nebraska Huskers and New England Patriots. Even bigger advocate of running the football!
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