Pelicans vs. Grizzlies: A Battle for the South in the Smoothie King Center

The New Orleans Pelicans host the Memphis Grizzlies in a highly anticipated matchup on December 28th, 2024, at the Smoothie King Center. This game promises to be a heated battle between two of the top teams in the Southwest Division, with both teams looking to establish their dominance in the South.

Pelicans Seeking to Bounce Back

The Pelicans come into this game looking to snap a recent losing streak. Their last five games have seen them fall to the Oklahoma City Thunder twice, the Miami Heat, and the Houston Rockets. While they did secure a victory against the Orlando Magic, the Pelicans have shown inconsistencies.

A major factor in their struggles has been injuries, with key players like Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III, Jose Alvarado, and Dejounte Murray all dealing with various ailments. The Pelicans will need to find a way to overcome these injuries if they want to compete with the Grizzlies.

Grizzlies Looking to Extend Their Winning Ways

On the other side, the Grizzlies are coming off a successful stretch of games, having won three of their last five, with the only losses coming to the Charlotte Hornets and Miami Heat. They’ve shown impressive offensive firepower, led by the likes of Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr..

However, the Grizzlies are also dealing with injuries. Jaren Jackson Jr. is currently out with a hamstring strain, and the Grizzlies have been without Vince Williams Jr., Cam Spencer, and GG Jackson II for a significant period.

Keys to the Game

This game will likely be a close contest, with both teams possessing the talent to win. Here are some key factors that could decide the outcome:

Pelicans Health: The status of Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III, and Dejounte Murray will be crucial for the Pelicans. If they can get even one of these players back on the court, it could be a game-changer.
Grizzlies Offense: The Grizzlies will need to continue their strong offensive performance, with Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. playing at a high level.
Defensive Intensity: Both teams boast strong defenses. The Pelicans have the size and athleticism to match up well against the Grizzlies, while the Grizzlies rely on a physical style.
Home Court Advantage: Playing at the Smoothie King Center should give the Pelicans a slight advantage, but the Grizzlies have proven they can win on the road.

Where to Watch the Game

For fans looking to catch all the action, there are a number of NBA streams options available. However, it's crucial to ensure you're using legal and reliable sources. To learn more about how to find trustworthy NBA streams, check out our guide on NBA Streams.

The Verdict

This matchup is a toss-up, with both teams possessing the talent to win. The Pelicans have a slight edge due to home court advantage, but the Grizzlies are a tough team to beat. The game could come down to the wire, with both teams fighting for every possession. Don’t miss this exciting clash between two of the NBA’s most exciting young teams.