New Orleans Pelicans: 3 predictions for preseason game vs. Miami Heat

New Orleans Pelicans: Predictions for preseason game vs. Miami Heat

The Battle for Minutes

Melli vs. Wenyen

There are three battles I am interested in watching during the preseason.

The first will be the battle for backup power forward. Nicolo Melli is in the driver’s seat at the moment, but if he shoots like he did down the stretch, he may quickly find himself on the bench.

I predict we will se a fair amount of Wenyen Gabriel, especially if Melli is struggling to hit shots. Gabriel will give more on the defensive end, which Stan Van Gundy will prioritize.

Hayes vs. Hernangomez

Another preseason battle will be between Jaxson Hayes and Willy Hernangomez for backup center minutes. Hayes is clearly the more talented player but he still makes a lot of dumb mistakes on defense.

I am sure Hayes will be given every opportunity to win the spot but if he doesn’t defend, SVG will go with the veteran option.

Who will play the most?

I predict that Josh Hart will lead the New Orleans Pelicans in minutes both the preseason and regular season. SVG is going to love Hart’s motor and his ability to defend multiple spots.

It is Hart who may end up as the backup to Brandon Ingram on the wing, and I can see him playing all over the place off the bench.

Hart will have a chance at 6th man of the year this season and will be the glue that holds the Pelicans.