Opinion
3 min read

Pelicans Set to Soar Against Grizzlies in Pre-Christmas Showdown

As the New Orleans Pelicans prepare to host the Memphis Grizzlies at the Smoothie King Center, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying encounter. The Pelicans, coming off a nail-bitingly close game against the Houston Rockets on December 24th where they fell just short at 104-106, are looking to bounce back and assert their dominance on their home court.


OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - NOVEMBER 1: Larry Nance Jr. #22 of the New Orleans Pelicans talks to the media after the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on November 1, 2023 at Paycom Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)

The previous matchup was a testament to the Pelicans' resilience. Despite trailing behind in points for most of the game, they managed a remarkable comeback in the third quarter, outscoring Houston by six points. However, it wasn't enough as they struggled with turnovers and free throw accuracy—areas that will undoubtedly have been addressed in practice sessions leading up to this game.


On offense, New Orleans has shown that they can be lethal from inside the paint, having scored 58 points from such positions against Houston. Their two-point shooting percentage stood at an impressive 59 percent during that game. This inside presence will be crucial as they face off against Memphis.


The Grizzlies should not be underestimated though; their recent performance against NOP on December 20th saw them edge out a win by just two points (115-113). In that contest, Memphis showcased their ability to score efficiently from both field goals and free throws while also maintaining a strong defensive stance with seven blocks.


However, NOP's own offensive prowess was evident too—they shot an excellent 44 percent from beyond the arc and maintained an almost perfect free throw completion rate of 92 percent. It's clear that when firing on all cylinders, NOP can dismantle any defense put before them.


Looking ahead at this upcoming clash of titans scheduled for December 26th at 7:00 PM local time (CT), fans should expect New Orleans Pelicans' players to come out with intensity and focus. With home-court advantage and lessons learned from past performances fresh in mind—their sights will undoubtedly be set on victory.


For those eager supporters who cannot make it to Smoothie King Center but wish not miss any action—tune into BSNO channel number 676-4 for live coverage of what is shaping up to be one of this season's most exciting games yet!

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