Can the New Orleans Pelicans Soar Above the Brooklyn Nets at Smoothie King Center?

As the New Orleans Pelicans prepare to host the Brooklyn Nets at the Smoothie King Center, fans are buzzing with anticipation. The Pelicans have been on a remarkable run, and their recent performance suggests that they could continue their winning ways against their upcoming opponents.

In their last game on January 1st against the Los Angeles Lakers, NOP displayed an offensive masterclass, scoring 129 points with a true shooting percentage of 65 percent. Their three-point shooting was particularly impressive; they made 50 percent of their attempts from beyond the arc. This kind of sharpshooting will be crucial when facing BKN.

NOP's ability to dominate inside was also evident in that game as they scored 42 points in paint and grabbed an impressive number of rebounds (53), including 12 offensive boards leading to 25 second-chance points. This level of tenacity on both ends of the court should serve them well against BKN.

Defensively, NOP showed prowess by limiting LAL to just a one-point lead at any time during the game and maintaining control for over 47 minutes. If NOP can replicate this defensive intensity and efficiency (defensive rating:106.86), it will be tough for BKN's offense to find its rhythm.

Looking back further, NOP's resilience was tested in a nail-biting overtime encounter with Memphis Grizzlies on December 27th where they narrowly missed out by one point but demonstrated grit throughout. Despite being out-blocked significantly (NOP had six blocks compared to MEM's seventeen), NOP managed to keep turnovers low and fought hard for every possession.

The upcoming match-up promises excitement as both teams bring contrasting styles to court – NOP’s high-octane offense versus BKN’s strategic playmaking. However, given recent performances and home-court advantage, it seems likely that NOP will dictate the pace of this game.

Fans should mark their calendars for January 2nd at 7:00 PM when these two teams clash at Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. The action can be caught live on BSNO channel number 676-4 or YES network channel number 631 for those cheering from afar. Will NOP rise above once more? Only time will tell if they can extend their lead in what promises to be an electrifying encounter.