5 Must-See New Orleans Pelicans Games To Watch In The 2018-2019 Season
By Terry Kimble
The New Orleans Pelicans have released their NBA schedule and here are 5 games that are must-see television this upcoming regular season
After the release of the New Orleans Pelicans schedule, fans began dissecting it for games that are absolute can’t-miss games. With the Pelicans having a franchise record of13 nationally televised games, there are many compelling matchups to watch for this year.
Let’s try to narrow it down to the five must-see Pels games this upcoming season.
Wednesday, October 17th at Houston Rockets (ESPN)
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Not only is this the first nationally televised game for the Pelicans, it’s the first game period for both teams. That means the winner already has a leg-up in the division rankings. But to do this you have to go up against the reigning MVP in James Harden, former Charlotte Hornets great Chris Paul, and newly acquired forward Carmelo Anthony.
The Rockets won a league-high 65 games last year. The Pelicans don’t want them to start 1-0 here.
Friday, December 21st at Los Angeles Lakers (ESPN)
It will be a homecoming of sorts as Pelicans forward Julius Randle will have his first crack at playing against the team that drafted him.
Also adding to the Hollywood drama is the Pelicans first chance to play against Rajon Rondo, who signed a 1-year deal with the purple and gold in the offseason instead of re-signing with the Pelicans. LeBron James also now being on the Lakers makes this a big game to watch.
Wednesday, January 16th at Golden State Warriors (ESPN)
No, this will not be the first time the Pelicans play the Golden State Warriors this upcoming season. That will actually be October 31st. It may possibly, however, be the first time the Pelicans play the Warriors with DeMarcus Cousins in the Warriors lineup. No extra hype needed.
Thursday, February 14th at Oklahoma City Thunder
Nothing like spending Valentine’s Day competing against the fiery Russell Westbrook and the Oklahoma City Thunder. This will also be the last game before the All-Star break, so it will be important to finish strong here in anticipation of a strong second half push.
Also keep in mind both the Thunder and Pelicans finished with an identical 48-34 last season, so these head-to-head matchups are critical. Can’t you feel the love in the air?
Tuesday, April 9th vs. Golden State Warriors
Ironically, this is the only matchup for the Pelicans at home against the Golden State Warriors, and it comes at the very last game of the season. This game could either be crucial in terms of playoff positioning or vacation plans depending on how the season shapes out. Let’s hope for the former.
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Are you looking forward to these five games mentioned? Are there any others you can’t wait to see? Sound off in the comments below and tell us what you think.