New Orleans Pelicans: Grades for close win vs. Hornets

New Orleans Pelicans vs. Hornets: Grades for the bigs

Jaxson Hayes will get the headlines, but Willy Hernangómez had another solid outing.

The Spanish center played better in the first half than in the second. To start the game, he effectively patrolled the paint and had six of his nine total points in the first quarter. By the half, Hernangómez had ten rebounds.

We already know that Hernangómez is a steady contributor on the offensive end. I think his best role is as a sparkplug bench big, but with Steven Adams injured, he has stepped in and done well as a starter.

The reason for his B- grade is just that Hernangómez didn’t really do anything in the second half. He took and made just one shot, playing just seven minutes because of how well Hayes was performing.

Wenyen Gabriel stepped in at the 4 again and did okay.

The South Sudan forward wasn’t as good as against the 76ers; yet, Gabriel still added energy and frontcourt presence to the New Orleans Pelicans.

In 17 minutes, Gabriel had two blocks, one steal, and three offensive rebounds. His motor makes a genuine difference. However, he could not replicate his offensive performance from the game prior, missing both of his attempted threes.

I outlined earlier this week that Gabriel could benefit from Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram’s absences. His minutes have increased and I think he has done well overall. Let’s see if he can have another big game before the regular season ends.