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Will the Pelicans Triumph Over Kings in Home Court Battle?

As the New Orleans Pelicans prepare to face off against the Sacramento Kings at the Smoothie King Center, fans are eager to see if their team can capitalize on home-court advantage and reverse recent trends. The upcoming game, scheduled for April 19th at 8:30 PM local time, promises to be a thrilling encounter.


SACRAMENTO, CA - APRIL 11: Dyson Daniels #11 of the New Orleans Pelicans rebounds the ball during the game against the Sacramento Kings on April 11, 2024 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. 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 Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)

In their last outing against the Los Angeles Lakers, despite a valiant effort, the Pelicans fell short with a final score of 106-110. The statistics reveal some areas of strength and others that need improvement. The Pelicans showed proficiency in points in paint with an impressive 62 percent conversion rate on such attempts, indicating an ability to penetrate defenses effectively. Their overall field goal percentage stood at 46 percent which is respectable but leaves room for growth.


However, turnovers were a significant issue as they gave up possession 13 times compared to just eight by their opponents. This aspect of play will be crucial against Sacramento; maintaining control and reducing errors could be decisive factors.


SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 11: De'Aaron Fox #5 of the Sacramento Kings shoots over Herbert Jones #5 of the New Orleans Pelicans during the second half of an NBA basketball game at Golden 1 Center on April 11, 2024 in Sacramento, California. 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. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

Defensively, there's also work to do for New Orleans. They managed only two blocks and four steals throughout the game – numbers that will need an uptick if they are to stifle Sacramento's offense.


On a positive note, bench production was strong with reserves contributing 32 points. This depth could prove vital as fatigue sets in during this late-season matchup.


SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 11: Jonas Valanciunas #17 of the New Orleans Pelicans shoots over De'Aaron Fox #5 of the Sacramento Kings during the first half of an NBA basketball game at Golden 1 Center on April 11, 2024 in Sacramento, California. 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. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

The Smoothie King Center has been known for its vibrant atmosphere which often acts as a sixth man for the home side. With fan support behind them, it's essential that New Orleans leverages this energy into defensive stops and offensive runs that can shift momentum in their favor.


Fans can catch all the action live on TNT or truTV as both teams vie for victory in what is sure to be an intense battle on court.

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