The New Orleans Pelicans begin their three-game Eastern Conference road swing on Friday night with a matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers. Both teams have dealt with significant injuries and inconsistency all season, setting the stage for a battle between two squads desperate for momentum.
Pelicans Searching for Answers
The Pelicans’ 2-15 road record demonstrates how hard it has been for them to find success away from the Smoothie King Center. Despite the struggles, there is some good news: Zion Williamson is expected to return to the lineup after sitting out Wednesday’s loss to Portland. Williamson has averaged 22.6 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 5.1 assists in seven games this season. Against the Blazers, he showed how much his presence gives the Pelicans a lift on both ends of the court.
Unfortunately for New Orleans, even with Zion back, the injury list remains lengthy. Brandon Ingram, Trey Murphy III, and Herb Jones are all sidelined, leaving giant holes in the rotation. The scoring burden falls heavily on CJ McCollum, who has stepped up all season long, and Dejounte Murray. Murray is questionable for Friday’s game but has also been much better lately, averaging 17.2 points, 8.4 assists, and 2.2 steals over his last five games.
The Pelicans’ defense has been a major weakness, allowing 117.2 points per game, one of the worst marks in the league. On offense, they’ve struggled to hit outside shots, ranking near the bottom in three-pointers made (11.6, 28th) and three-point percentage (33.6, 27th).
76ers Battling Injuries and Inconsistency
The 76ers have their own set of challenges, starting with the absence of Joel Embiid, who is dealing with a foot injury. Philadelphia hasn’t exactly dominated at home, either. The 76ers’ 6-10 home record is one of the worst in the NBA, as opponents have cashed in repeatedly at the Wells Fargo Center. Tyrese Maxey has been the team’s standout performer, averaging 25.5 points per game, but he’s had to do a lot with limited support from the rest of the roster.
Paul George is listed as probable after missing Wednesday’s win over Washington. Without Embiid, Philadelphia’s rebounding has taken a hit—they rank second-worst in the league with just 40 boards per game. Defensively, they’ve been solid, allowing 110.5 points per game, but their offensive struggles continue to hold them back from making a run.
Key Matchups
- Zion Williamson vs. 76ers Frontcourt: With Embiid out, Williamson has an opportunity to dominate in the paint. The Sixers’ undersized frontcourt will likely have its hands full containing Zion’s physicality and ability to finish around the rim.
- Tyrese Maxey vs. Pelicans Guards: Maxey’s quickness and scoring ability make him a difficult matchup for the Pels. Whether or not Murray plays, the Pelicans will need to find a way to slow Maxey down.
- Pelicans’ Bench vs. 76ers’ Depth: Both teams will rely heavily on their role players to make an impact. The ability of each team’s bench to contribute will play a significant role in determining the victor.
What’s at Stake
For the Pelicans, this game is another opportunity to gain confidence and chemistry as they navigate a difficult season. With a tough road schedule ahead, starting the trip on a positive note could go a long way.
Most Recent Starting Lineups
| Philadelphia 76ers | New Orleans Pelicans |
| G – Tyrese Maxey | G – Dejounte Murray |
| G – Eric Gordon | G – CJ McCollum |
| F – Kelly Oubre Jr. | F – Herb Jones |
| F – Caleb Martin | F – Zion Williamson |
| C – Guerschon Yabusele | C – Yves Missi |
Injuries
Philadelphia 76ers: Paul George (left groin tightness) is PROBABLE. Andre Drummond (left toe sprain), Joel Embiid (left foot sprain), Kyle Lowry (left foot stress reaction), KJ Martin (left foot stress reaction), and Jared McCain (left meniscus surgery) are OUT.
New Orleans Pelicans: Dejounte Murray (right elbow soreness/right shin contusion) is QUESTIONABLE. Brandon Ingram (left ankle sprain), Herb Jones (right shoulder sprain), and Trey Murphy (left ankle sprain) are OUT.
Who: New Orleans Pelicans (7–31) vs Philadelphia 76ers (15-20)
Season Series:
- Jan. 10: Pelicans at 76ers
- Mar. 24: Pelicans vs. 76ers
Series History: The New Orleans Pelicans are 22-23 all-time against the Philadelphia 76ers, having won two in a row and three of the last four in the series.
Where: Wells Fargo Center
When: Jan. 10, 6:00 PM CST
Where to watch: Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network, Pelicans+
Where to listen: WWL Radio 870 AM
For more content, visit HITP Sports on YouTube or HITP Sports online.
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