Opinion
3 min read

Will the New Orleans Pelicans Soar Above the Phoenix Suns at Home?

As the New Orleans Pelicans prepare to host the Phoenix Suns at Smoothie King Center, fans are eager to see if their team can maintain their dominant home court performance. The Pelicans have shown a remarkable ability to control games on their turf, as evidenced by their commanding victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on March 16th, where they led for over 42 minutes and secured a 19-point lead.


NEW ORLEANS, LA - JANUARY 19: Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns shoots the ball during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on January 19, 2024 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. 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 2024 NBAE (Photo by Layne Murdoch Jr./NBAE via Getty Images)

The offensive prowess of the Pelicans was on full display during that game, with an impressive 54 percent field goal percentage and a true shooting percentage of 62. Their efficiency game score reached an outstanding 116.7, showcasing their ability to convert possessions into points effectively. Moreover, they capitalized on turnovers with a staggering 31 points off Trail Blazers' mistakes.


However, it wasn't just offense where NOP excelled; defensively they were just as formidable. They held Portland to only a one-point lead at any time during the game and limited them to an offensive points per possession of just over one point (1.08). This defensive solidity will be crucial when facing PHX's dynamic attack.


NEW ORLEANS, LA - JANUARY 19: An overall view of the New Orleans Pelicans City Edition Court before the game against the Phoenix Suns in New Orleans, Louisiana at Smoothie King Center on January 19, 2024. 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 Layne Murdoch Jr./NBAE via Getty Images)

In contrast, NOP's recent away game against Orlando Magic on March 21st highlighted some areas for improvement. Despite scoring well in paint with 54 points and maintaining a two-point conversion rate of 63 percent, NOP fell short defensively allowing Magic to score freely resulting in a loss with Magic leading for almost three-quarters of the match duration.


The upcoming matchup against PHX is expected to be intense; both teams have demonstrated strong performances throughout the season. However, NOP has shown resilience and adaptability that could give them an edge in this encounter—especially considering how they've bounced back from losses before.


NEW ORLEANS, LA - JANUARY 19: An overall view of the New Orleans Pelicans City Edition Court before the game against the Phoenix Suns in New Orleans, Louisiana at Smoothie King Center on January 19, 2024. 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 Layne Murdoch Jr./NBAE via Getty Images)

NOP fans should look forward to seeing how their team utilizes its fast-break opportunities after converting them at a rate of 60 percent against Orlando Magic while also hoping for improved ball security following nineteen turnovers in that same game.


With all eyes set on April Fool's Day clash scheduled at Smoothie King Center at 7:00 PM CT without any jests or tricks involved—the real question remains whether NOP can execute under pressure against PHX’s formidable lineup. Fans won't want to miss this showdown which will be broadcasted locally on BSNO network as well as AZFamily network for those tuning in from Arizona.

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