Opinion
3 min read

Pelicans Set to Soar Against Cavaliers at Smoothie King Center

The New Orleans Pelicans are poised for a thrilling encounter as they prepare to host the Cleveland Cavaliers at the Smoothie King Center. The Pelicans, coming off a dominant 129-102 victory over the Pacers on March 2nd, have shown they can bring both offensive firepower and defensive prowess to the hardwood.


CLEVELAND, OH - December 21: Jeremiah Robinson-Earl #50 of the New Orleans Pelicans drives to the basket during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on December 21, 2023 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio. 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 David Liam Kyle/NBAE via Getty Images)

In their recent triumph, NOP demonstrated an impressive offensive performance with a shooting percentage of 56 percent from the field and an even more remarkable 47 percent from beyond the arc. Their ability to convert on fast breaks was evident as they racked up 28 points in transition, capitalizing on their speed and agility. With such a commanding display of scoring efficiency, it's clear that NOP's offense is firing on all cylinders.


The bench depth has also been notable for NOP, contributing a significant 52 points in their last outing. This kind of support will be crucial against CLE's defense which has been known for its tenacity. However, NOP’s biggest lead of 36 points in their previous game indicates that once they gain momentum, it can be incredibly challenging for opponents to slow them down.


CLEVELAND, OH - December 21: Dyson Daniels #11 of the New Orleans Pelicans dribbles the ball during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on December 21, 2023 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio. 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 David Liam Kyle/NBAE via Getty Images)

Defensively, NOP held their ground by limiting IND to just 42 percent shooting from the field. They'll need this same defensive intensity against CLE’s versatile scorers. The Pelicans' ability to draw fouls and get to the line was also key; hitting free throws at a rate of nearly 70 percent could play an integral role in tight game situations.


Looking back further provides additional insights into NOP’s capabilities. Despite falling short against IND with a scoreline of 123-114 on February 29th where they led for zero minutes, NOP bounced back impressively in their next game against NYK with another convincing win (115-92) on February 28th at Madison Square Garden – showcasing resilience and adaptability after setbacks.


CLEVELAND, OH - DECEMBER 21:  Jonas Valanciunas #17 of the New Orleans Pelicans handles the ball during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on December 21, 2023 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio. 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  Lauren Leigh Bacho/NBAE via Getty Images)

NOP fans should feel optimistic about their team's chances given these performances leading up to this matchup with CLE – especially considering how well-rounded both ends of play have been executed recently by players coming off the bench or starting lineup alike.


As we look ahead towards March 13th when these two teams clash at Smoothie King Center starting at seven o'clock PM local time (Central Time), fans can catch all action live through broadcast networks BSNO or BSOH depending upon your location - ensuring you won't miss any part of what promises be another exciting chapter New Orleans Pelicans' season journey!

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