Zion Williamson Returns, Pelicans Shock Bulls with Bold Coaching Move
The New Orleans Pelicans clinched their fifth victory of the season on Sunday night, completing a season sweep against the Chicago Bulls. With Zion Williamson back in action after a six-game hiatus due to an adductor strain and Jordan Poole contributing for the second consecutive game, the Pelicans showcased their healthiest roster yet this season. The immediate impact was palpable, as the team surged ahead, controlling the game primarily after a dominant second quarter.
Bulls Rally and a Coach’s Gamble
Despite New Orleans’ early lead, the Chicago Bulls rallied late in the third quarter, momentarily taking the advantage. In response, head coach James Borrego made a daring decision that would alter the course of the game. He opted to start the fourth quarter with Karlo Matkovic, a player who had yet to see any minutes prior. This unexpected move meant that promising rookies Derik Queen and Yves Missi remained on the bench, as Matkovic took the reins for the entire quarter.
Matkovic contributed solidly, finishing with four points, four rebounds, and a block, while the Pelicans outperformed the Bulls by nine points during his time on the floor. In contrast, Queen, the standout rookie, faced challenges in his 25 minutes of play, managing just four points, eight rebounds, six assists, and a staggering five turnovers. His timid performance—taking only four shots and not earning a trip to the free-throw line—highlighted a concerning lack of aggression.
Queen’s Path to Improvement
The benching of Queen, while not directly addressed by Borrego, raises critical questions about the rookie’s development. This is not the first instance where Queen found himself sitting out crucial minutes of the game. For him to ascend to stardom, he must ensure he gives the coaching staff no reason to reconsider his role in tight situations. The key to his success lies in achieving consistency on both ends of the court and maintaining a high energy level each game.
Borrego acknowledged postgame that he was dissatisfied with his team’s energy in the first half, which prompted his decision to turn to Matkovic at halftime. The interim coach praised Matkovic for delivering the spark the team needed, making significant contributions on both offense and defense. His standout moment came with a crucial chasedown block against Nikola Vucevic, a play that not only showcased Matkovic’s defensive prowess but also reinforced the importance of energy in pivotal moments.
As the Pelicans continue their season, the dynamics between rookies and the coaching staff will be closely monitored. The performance of players like Matkovic and Queen will play a significant role in shaping the team’s future, especially as they strive for greater consistency and success on the court.
