Pelicans’ advantages and disadvantages vs. the Spurs

New Orleans Pelicans vs. San Antonio Spurs: The centers and intangibles

The Spurs really only use one center in Jakob Poeltl, who has had some big games against the Pelicans in the past, including a double-double in their last meeting.

The Pelicans will use Jonas Valanciunas as their primary center, with Willie Hernangomez as the backup, though Hernangomez may not step on the floor.

Jonas is one of the best centers in the league, so he easily has the advantage in the head-to-head matchup and the Pels have more center depth overall.

Advantage: Pelicans

When it comes to intangibles, I think the Pelicans have a clear advantage, as they have two players in CJ McCollum and Jonas Valanciunas who have more playoff experience than the entire Spurs roster combined.

JV has played 48 playoff games in his career, while McCollum has played 57, while the Spurs are led by Murray (16) and Richardson (30).

Even though neither team has had a deep playoff run in a long time, the Pels have the advantage in experience and arguably have the two best players in the game in Ingram and McCollum.

But games aren’t played on paper, so even though this looks like the Pels have more advantages, they still lost 3-of-4 to this Spurs team, so can’t take anything for granted.