The New Orleans Pelicans are aiming to secure a spot in the top six of the Western Conference playoffs. They have an opportunity to advance towards this goal as they face the struggling Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday night.
Currently holding the seventh position in the West with a record of 46-32, the Pelicans are tied with the Phoenix Suns, who occupy the sixth spot. Despite defeating the Suns 113-105 in their recent matchup, the Pelicans remain behind due to losing the tiebreaker. With close competition from the Sacramento Kings (45-33) and the Los Angeles Lakers (45-34), the Pelicans are under pressure as they approach the final four games of the season.
This upcoming game in Portland is part of a challenging four-game road trip for the Pelicans, where they recently broke a four-game losing streak with a win against Phoenix. CJ McCollum and Zion Williamson led the team to victory, with Williamson showcasing an impressive all-around performance, particularly excelling defensively. McCollum’s recent string of high-scoring games adds to the Pelicans’ offensive firepower, despite the absence of Brandon Ingram due to injury.
New Orleans has had the upper hand against Portland this season, winning both previous matchups. McCollum, facing his former team, has been a key contributor in these victories. On the other hand, the Trail Blazers have struggled, losing 11 of their last 13 games. Despite showing effort, particularly in rebounding, they fell short in converting opportunities, as noted by coach Chauncey Billups.
As the Trail Blazers begin a three-game homestand, they aim to turn their fortunes around against the Pelicans before closing out the season against the Sacramento Kings.
