Pelicans Return Home, Shooting To Sweep Spurs
New Orleans, La — The New Orleans Pelicans notched a much-needed victory Sunday night against the Houston Rockets. The victory keeps the Pelicans within striking distance of qualifying for the Play-In tournament. Next is the San Antonio Spurs, who come into New Orleans with a 19-52 record.
The Pels won their first three meetings this season by an average of 15 points. With a victory on Tuesday night, New Orleans will sweep the season series with the Spurs for the first time in franchise history.
These teams have linked beyond just the games played on the court this season. The Pelicans and Spurs were involved in a trade deadline deal that sent Josh Richardson to New Orleans and Devonte Graham to San Antonio. It was the only midseason move the Pelicans made, and it's had some benefits.
Since being acquired by New Orleans, the former Tennessee Volunteer guard has averaged 9 points, two rebounds, and two assists on 35% shooting from three-point territory. His added defensive versatility allows the Pelicans to switch multiple positions on defense throughout the course of the game.
Mar 11, 2023; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Pelicans guard Josh Richardson (2) brings the ball up court against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
San Antonio will be short-handed Tuesday night, including their top two scorers Keldon Johnson and Devin Vassell. Johnson, San Antonio's top scorer, is averaging 21 points on 45% shooting from the field. New Orleans did a good job slowing Johnson down this season, as he is averaging 8.5 points against the Pelicans.
Jonas Valanciunas has been a force versus the Spurs, netting double-doubles in all three games this year. Valanciunas is averaging 19 points and ten rebounds, and the Pelicans will likely go to the big man early and often in this game. San Antonio traded away center Jakob Poeltl earlier this season and centers Charles Bassey, and Khem Birch will not play on Tuesday. New Orleans should exploit the Spurs' small-ball lineup.
San Antonio has been playing better lately, going 5-5 in their last ten games. However, they are just 2-12 against the Southwest division this season and rank last in the NBA in points allowed per game. New Orleans ranks No. 1 in the league in opponent three-point percentage, while the Spurs rank dead last. The Pelicans will have opportunities to make shots and must take advantage.
After the San Antonio game, the Pelicans remain home, hosting the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday. New Orleans then heads out West for a four-game road trip.
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