The New Orleans Pelicans finally returned to the court Monday night against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Although they didn’t get the desired result, it was just the first in a slate of games that do not matter.
It’s the best time to watch young players and see what they’ve been able to add to their arsenal. Someone like Jaxson Hayes is just 21 years old but is already entering his 3rd season in the NBA. It’s time to watch some of the young players take a step forward under a coach known for such work in Willie Green.
The franchise will continue to enlist that strategy tonight when they head back to the Smoothie King Center to host the Orlando Magic at 7 P.M C/T. The game’s biggest storyline is the new additions from the off-season get to play in front of the hometown fans.
Amongst the players looking to make a positive impression in front of his new city is center Jonas Valanciunas. He missed Monday’s contest with a thumb injury but recently was upgraded to “probable” for tonight’s contest. The Pelicans lack a center that can be effective on both sides of the floor, but his offensive repertoire helps mask some of those weaknesses. It’ll be interesting to see how he works alongside someone like Brandon Ingram, who should presumably start at the 4 again with Zion Williamson still nursing a foot injury.
The most attention could be towards Devonte’ Graham, the indirect replacement of Lonzo Ball. His first impression wasn’t great, shooting 2-6 from the field while turning the ball over 4 times in just 22 minutes of play. Graham got phased out of heavy rotational minutes with the Charlotte Hornets last season due to the talent at his position on the roster. It will be interesting to see if he can get back on track and fend off Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Kira Lewis Jr. for playing time.
How to watch/stream the New Orleans Pelicans vs. Orlando Magic game
Watch: Bally Sports New Orleans
Stream: NBA League Pass, YouTube TV (With NBA Package), Fubo.TV
When: 7:00 P.M C/T
New Orleans gets to watch their team for the first time in over 140 days, and from the sounds of things, are excited to do so. After all the city has gone through the last few months, a break is well warranted.
Hopefully, there are no pianos rolled out to the center of the court, and the only focus is on basketball.