Opinion
3 min read

Pelicans Set to Engage in a Feathery Duel with Trail Blazers at Moda Center

As the New Orleans Pelicans prepare to face off against the Portland Trail Blazers at the Moda Center, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying match-up. The Pelicans, coming off a recent game on April 2nd against the Phoenix Suns where they scored 111 points but fell short by 13 points, are looking to rebound and capture a win on the road.


NEW ORLEANS, LA - MARCH 16: Dalano Banton #5 of the Portland Trail Blazers shoots a free throw during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on March 16, 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)

In their last encounter with the Suns, despite being outscored, New Orleans demonstrated resilience and an ability to maintain offensive pressure. They managed an impressive 60 points in the paint and converted 41 percent of their three-point attempts. Their bench contributed significantly with 25 points, showcasing depth that could prove crucial against Portland.


The Pelicans' defensive efforts will need sharpening after allowing Phoenix to shoot 49 percent from the field and score 124 points. However, their tenacity was evident as they racked up ten steals during that game. This aggressive defense will be necessary if they hope to contain a Trail Blazers team known for its dynamic scoring ability.


NEW ORLEANS, LA - MARCH 16: Trey Murphy III #25 of the New Orleans Pelicans drives to the basket during the game against the Portland Trail Blazers on March 16, 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)

Portland's home advantage at Moda Center cannot be underestimated; however, NOP's recent performance suggests they have both firepower and determination needed for this challenge. With players like Zion Williamson leading charge – his presence alone can shift dynamics of any game – NOP has potential not just compete but also secure victory away from home.


Looking back further into March provides additional insights into NOP's capabilities: On March 30th versus Boston Celtics at Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, despite losing by twelve points (92-104), NOP showed periods of dominance leading for over twenty-two minutes of playtime. Their fast break efficiency was notable as well; converting on seven out eleven attempts is no small feat against such formidable opposition as Celtics who boast best record league thus far season (58-16).


NEW ORLEANS, LA - MARCH 16: Dalano Banton #5 of the Portland Trail Blazers drives to the basket during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on March 16, 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)

NOP also demonstrated resilience when facing Milwaukee Bucks on March 29th where they emerged victorious (107-100) after trailing early in game but eventually taking control lead changes eight times throughout contest before securing win thanks largely part their superior rebounding effort which saw them grab sixty boards compared Bucks' fifty-five.


With these performances mind fans should expect see determined Pelican squad take court April ninth nine o'clock ROOT Sports NW+ BSNO networks available viewing pleasure all those eager witness what sure be thrilling battle between two talented teams Western Conference NBA hierarchy stakes high each side seeks solidify playoff positioning late season push towards postseason glory awaits!

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