Injuries are often the scapegoat for a team’s poor performance, but for the New Orleans Pelicans, their recent loss to the Brooklyn Nets can’t be pinned solely on missing players. Despite a slew of injuries, the Pelicans were in a position to win, leading with just over three minutes left in the game. However, their inability to score in those crucial moments led to their fifth consecutive defeat.
Crunch Time Woes
The Pelicans’ offensive execution in the final minutes was lackluster, to say the least. They went 0 for 8 from the field, failing to capitalize on their lead. This isn’t just about missing shots; it’s about the absence of a coherent game plan. The team looked disorganized, a recurring issue that has plagued them since the start of the season. Head Coach Willie Green’s post-game comments about execution raise the question: what exactly were they trying to execute?
The shot selection was questionable, with Brandon Ingram often forced into contested mid-range jumpers. The lack of offensive actions and poor play-calling during timeouts were glaring. Even with multiple opportunities to regroup and strategize, the Pelicans failed to generate quality looks. This isn’t just a one-off issue; it’s a pattern that has persisted over the past few seasons.
Trey Murphy’s Return and Usage
Trey Murphy’s return was a bright spot, but his utilization was puzzling. Despite being a known threat, the Pelicans didn’t run plays to free him up for shots. The Brooklyn Nets effectively limited his airspace, but the Pelicans didn’t counter with creative play-calling. Murphy took only six three-point attempts, a number that should have been higher given his shooting prowess.
The Pelicans have previously shown they can adapt, as seen with Jordan Hawkins, who was effectively used despite defensive pressure. The same approach should have been applied to Murphy. Instead, the team seemed to lack a plan to leverage his skills, a missed opportunity in a game that was within their grasp.
The Pelicans’ struggles in crunch time and their failure to adapt offensively are issues that need addressing. While injuries play a role, the team’s inability to execute under pressure is a significant concern. For more insights and a deeper dive into the Pelicans’ challenges, tune into the Locked On Pelicans podcast for this and much more.
