Pelicans Confront Bulls with Sidelined Stars, Aiming for Series Sweep
The New Orleans Pelicans are set to face off against the Chicago Bulls in a pivotal matchup that marks their third encounter this season. In an unusual twist of scheduling, a Western Conference team like the Pelicans is clashing with an Eastern Conference opponent more than twice in a single season. As they prepare for this showdown, the Pelicans are keen on sweeping their season series against the 15-17 Bulls.
Struggling to Find Their Footing
Currently languishing at the bottom of the Western Conference with a disheartening 8-26 record, the Pelicans are desperate to halt a four-game losing streak. However, their task has become significantly more challenging as they will be missing key players for this matchup. Jose Alvarado, who has been instrumental in their backcourt, will miss his second consecutive game due to a two-game suspension stemming from a physical altercation with Suns center Mark Williams over the weekend.
Absences Compound Challenges
Joining Alvarado on the sidelines is Herb Jones, the Pelicans’ defensive linchpin. After spraining his ankle in last week’s game against the Mavericks, Jones has now missed four straight contests. The team’s decision to rule him out a full day prior to the matchup suggests he is not close to a return. This marks the 13th game Jones has been unavailable this season, and the impact is staggering: the Pelicans have managed just one win in those games, underscoring the vital role he plays on both ends of the court. With Jones in the lineup, the team boasts a more competitive 7-15 record.
In addition to these absences, injuries have plagued the Pelicans throughout the season. Zion Williamson has been sidelined for 16 games, while Poole has missed 19. Meanwhile, Dejounte Murray has yet to see the floor this season, as he continues to recover from a ruptured Achilles and remains without a clear timeline for his return.
Relying on Depth
With Alvarado and Jones out, the Pelicans will need to dig deeper into their rotation. Williamson reclaimed his starting role against the Knicks and is expected to continue alongside Jeremiah Fears, Derik Queen, Saddiq Bey, and Trey Murphy. Kevon Looney made his return to the rotation recently, contributing 24 minutes in his first action in weeks.
In Alvarado’s absence, rookie Jordan Hawkins stepped in on Monday, scoring two points in 12 minutes. The Pelicans’ rotation will likely include Poole, Looney, Hawkins, Micah Peavy, and Yves Missi, alongside the starting five put forth by head coach James Borrego. The availability of Bryce McGowens and Karlo Matkovic remains uncertain, adding an element of unpredictability to the Pelicans’ game plan.
As the Pelicans prepare to take on the Bulls, the pressure is on. With their backs against the wall and key players absent, they will need to summon every ounce of grit and resilience to secure a much-needed victory and avoid further slipping in the standings.
