New Orleans Pelicans: 3 matchups that will decide the game vs. Pacers

New Orleans Pelicans: Brandon Ingram needs to keep playing like an MVP

Brandon Ingram vs. Malcolm Brogdon

Brandon Ingram has been playing like an MVP candidate so far this season and will need to keep it up against Malcolm Brogdon, which will not be an easy task.

The Pacers often feature three or even four-guard lineups with Victor Oladipo, Aaron Holiday and Brogdon, who is officially listed as the team’s point guard.

But Brodgon has the size of a wing and will probably be the one tasked with defending Ingram. The Pels will run a lot of defensive looks at Brogdon and everyone from Ingram, to Lonzo Ball will probably defend him at some point.

Brogdon is a willing defender, but Ingram is taller and much longer, so he needs to use his length to simply shoot over Brogdon.

The Ingram/Adams pick-and-roll has been the go-to play this season and Ingram should be able to get loose for jumpers all night against the Pacers, as he can shoot over any of their guards.

If Ingram sees any of Doug McDermott defending him then he needs to feast, as McDermott is not a good defender and can’t stay with B.I. on his best day.

This game should be a big one for Ingram, who presents matchup problems for just about everyone these days.

If the New Orleans Pelicans get a big night from Ingram and keep the Pacers’ bigs in check, they should have a good chance to improve to 5-2 on the 2020-21 season.