The New Orleans Pelicans entered this season with everyone from the front office to the 12th man talking about the depth of their current roster. Some called it the most talented team in franchise history, featuring four players who had averaged 20 points or more in a season.
Instead, the Pelicans have once again been plagued by injuries, with only two of those players available for Wednesday’s matchup with the Golden State Warriors. The Pelicans battled in the first half, but offensive droughts in the third and fourth quarters led to a 104-89 loss, their third straight.
Key Absences and a Shuffled Lineup
By game’s end the Pelicans had six regulars sidelined, including center Daniel Theis, who exited midgame due to an ankle injury. CJ McCollum and Herb Jones were out after suffering injuries in Tuesday’s loss, forcing New Orleans to rely on lesser-utilized players like the recently acquired Brandon Boston Jr. and Jamal Cain. The bench rotation initially injected energy, sparking a strong second-quarter push, though Golden State maintained control.
Paint Problems for Pelicans’ Star Duo
The offensive struggles were highlighted in the paint, where Zion Williamson faced an unusually tough night. Williamson found himself throttled around the basket by the defense of Draymond Green, beginning the game just 3-for-17 from the field. His frustration was palpable as he failed to convert on drives or draw fouls, leaving the Pelicans without answers on offense. Brandon Ingram had limited scoring opportunities and struggled to make an impact, ending the night with fewer shot attempts than Jose Alvarado (13-11).
The Backup Backcourt Puts Up Points
With McCollum and Jones sidelined, Jose Alvarado and Jordan Hawkins were forced into the starting lineup. The duo contributed much-needed shooting, combining for eight three-pointers on 22 attempts, and Hawkins led the team with 23 points. However, their three-point contributions were largely where the positives ended for New Orleans on offense. Hawkins was held to seven points (0-5 3PA) in the second half as the Warriors pulled away.
By the Numbers
The Pelicans’ struggles were apparent in their shooting percentages:
- Field Goal Percentage: New Orleans shot just 36.7% from the field, compared to 47.1% for the Warriors.
- Free Throw Percentage: 60.0% at the line, New Orleans shot 65.9% from the charity stripe over their two games against Golden State.
- Three-Point Comparison: After shooting 22 threes on Tuesday, the Pelicans attempted 36 three-pointers Wednesday but made only 11 (30.6%) and were outscored by six points beyond the arc.
The Pelicans return home with their first three-game losing streak since dropping four in a row from Mar. 30 through Apr. 5 of last season, and their first three-game road losing skid since Jan. 15 through Jan. 29.
New Orleans begins a four-game home stand Friday night when they host the Indiana Pacers (2-3). The teams have split their series each of the past four seasons, with the Pelicans taking three straight at the Smoothie King Center.
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All I can say is ugh!
Not much else to say at this point.