New Orleans Pelicans: 3 key matchups vs. the Toronto Raptors

New Orleans Pelicans vs. Toronto Raptors: Brandon Ingram will be tested

Brandon Ingram vs. Pascal Siakam/OG Anunoby

Those worried about the Pelicans’ wing defense will get an early evaluation, as Toronto has one of the best pairs in the league.

Siakam is technically a power forward but plays more on the perimeter and will likely spend some time defending Ingram.

Both he and Anunoby are strong, willing defenders who are going to come at Ingram all night. This is one of those games where he might have to take a back seat and it will be imperative for him not to force bad shots or get down if he misses a few.

Ingram can step up as a playmaker in this game, especially with the second unit, and try to be more of a facilitator than a primary scorer.

On the other end, it is going to be a tough night for the Pels, as they don’t really have anyone with the skillset to defend Siakam.

Josh Hart and Sindarius Thornwell might get some time there, but this game could expose one of the Pels’ early-season weaknesses, which is defense on the wing.

The New Orleans Pelicans will have to take advantage of their superior big men and limit the damage on the wing to have a chance against the Raptors.