Pelicans’ advantages and disadvantages vs. the Spurs
New Orleans Pelicans vs. San Antonio Spurs: The forwards
Both teams have a solid group of forwards who offer varying strengths and weaknesses. Here is the Spurs’ group:
- Devin Vassell
- Keldon Johnson
- Josh Richardson
- Zach Collins
Richardson has been a sneaky good pickup for the Spurs this season and has played well since coming over from Boston. He’s shot over 44 percent from long range since joining the Spurs, so his 3-point shooting off the bench is something the Pels will have to be aware of.
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The Pelicans will use this group of forwards:
- Brandon Ingram
- Herb Jones
- Jaxson Hayes
- Larry Nance Jr.
- Trey Murphy III
It’s possible that Willie Green will tighten his rotation and use just four forwards (Murphy III could be used sparingly) but the Pelicans clearly have the advantage here, both in terms of talent and depth.
Brandon Ingram should be the best player on the floor, Herb Jones is an All-Defense level defender, Jaxson Hayes can be an X-factor that some teams can’t deal with and veteran Larry Nance Jr. will supply a vocal veteran leader off the bench.
Advantage: Pelicans