Jake Madison here, the host of the daily Locked On Pelicans podcast, with your daily Locked On Pelicans newsletter. Each day we bring you the biggest stories about the Pelicans and the NBA, including the hottest links to other stories you need to read. Plus, Josh Lloyd delivers daily fantasy notes to crush your league.
Pelicans’ Stars Shine Bright: A New Orleans Resurgence
Photos by Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
The New Orleans Pelicans have been on a rollercoaster, but recent performances suggest a promising turnaround. With Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram leading the charge, the team has shown resilience and skill, particularly in their recent victory over the Indiana Pacers. This win was crucial, not just for the standings, but for the morale of the team and its fans.
Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram have been pivotal in this resurgence. Against the Pacers, Williamson scored 34 points and dished out 10 assists, while Ingram added 26 points and seven assists. Their synergy on the court was evident as they executed plays together, something that has been missing in previous games. This dynamic duo’s ability to play off each other, especially in pick-and-roll situations, was a game-changer.
The Pelicans’ defense also stepped up, limiting the Pacers’ key players. Miles Turner was held to just 12 points, and Tyrese Haliburton was kept to 11 points on 2-of-8 shooting. This defensive effort was a stark contrast to their previous road performances, where they struggled to maintain intensity and focus.
A Moral Victory Against the Hawks
Despite a loss to the Atlanta Hawks, the Pelicans displayed a fighting spirit that was absent earlier in the season. Missing key players like Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum, the team still managed to compete fiercely. Brandon Ingram was outstanding, scoring 32 points and showcasing his improved three-point shooting, which has opened up the floor for his teammates.
The coaching staff deserves credit for their strategic adjustments, particularly in finding ways to get Jordan Hawkins open for shots. Hawkins, who scored 19 points, was effectively utilized through creative play-calling, allowing him to take eight three-point attempts. This adaptability from the coaching staff is a positive sign for the team’s development.
The Pelicans’ ability to compete without several of their top players speaks volumes about their depth and potential. Players like Brandon Boston Jr. and Jeremiah Robinson-Earl have stepped up, providing valuable contributions off the bench. Boston Jr., in particular, has shown promise as a scorer, adding energy and points when needed.
The Pelicans’ recent performances have instilled hopw and demonstrated that they can be a formidable team when firing on all cylinders. The challenge now is maintaining this level of play consistently, especially as they face tougher opponents.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Pelicans’ recent games and strategies, tune into the Locked On Pelicans podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Pelicans Podcast:
- The impact of Zion Williamson’s absence against the Hawks
- Coaching strategies and adjustments for upcoming games
- Player development and contributions from the bench
Reflections from Vince Carter’s jersey retirement night
The Toronto Raptors retired Vince Carter’s jersey on Saturday night. The ceremony came during half time of the Raptors-Kings game, where an emotional Carter and his family watched a banner with his number and the iconic photo of him mid-between-the-legs-dunk rise up to the rafters in the arena it all started in for him. That moment marked a culmination. Of a career, of a person’s trepidatious relationship with a city and its fan base, of a distinct era of NBA basketball and identity of a franchise, but also of a month’s worth of moments for Carter.
The Raptors made the announcement at a community basketball court dedication to Carter in late September, where franchise president Masai Ujiri thanked Carter for all he did to inspire the game in Canada and put the Raptors franchise on the map. “Time heals things,” Ujiri told the crowd before he confirmed Carter would be the first player in team history to have their number retired. Carter was overcome and fought back tears as he thanked the crowd, Ujiri and the city.
The tributes continued. Carter had an airplane dedicated to him by one of the country’s major airlines, Air Canada, in a nod to his nickname of the same. A mural was unveiled in downtown Toronto, and it was announced Carter would join as a broadcaster to provide coverage for select games this season — also the Raptors 30th anniversary season.
Given the host of accolades and recognition, I found it telling when Carter sat down in front of assembled media prior to Saturday night’s game for a pre-ceremony presser, and said he wasn’t sure what to expect of the night but encouraged everyone to “live in the moment”. I asked him, in light of every tribute and celebration thus far, how he was doing that or if his perception of the moment changed. He laughed. “I’m fighting,” he admitted.
Katie Heindl is a credentialed NBA and WNBA writer, her bylines have appeared with The New York Times Magazine, SLAM, The Athletic, Yahoo Sports, Dime, Rolling Stone, among others. She writes the bestselling Substack, Basketball Feelings and is working on a book of the same name.
Home and Away
Injury Zion Williamson’s status for the game against the Hawks remains uncertain as he is unexpectedly downgraded on the injury report. (Sports Illustrated)
Injury The Pelicans face challenges with 13 players listed on the injury report for their upcoming game against the Hawks. (Sports Illustrated)
Signing The New Orleans Pelicans announce the signing of a former Timberwolves player Jaylen Nowell, bolstering their roster depth. (Sports Illustrated)
Analysis Draymond Green offers a strong statement on Zion Williamson’s potential impact, highlighting his unique abilities. (Sports Illustrated)
Injury Zion Williamson’s final injury status for the game against the Hawks remains a crucial concern for the Pelicans. (Sports Illustrated)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Paul George’s Return Is A Huge Fantasy Basketball Boost
Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George (8) dribbles against the Atlanta Hawks in the second quarter at State Farm Arena.|Photo by Brett Davis-Imagn Images
As we wrap up another thrilling week in the NBA, it’s time to delve into the latest injury updates and player performances that could impact your fantasy basketball strategy. With only three games on Sunday, the anticipation builds for an action-packed 15-game day. Let’s explore the key developments and what they mean for your fantasy lineup.
Injury Updates: Key Players to Watch
Zach LaVine’s shoulder issues continue to be a concern, leaving his status questionable. This ongoing problem could affect his availability, so keep an eye on updates. Meanwhile, Rudy Gobert’s ankle sprain opens opportunities for Naz Reid and Luka Garza, especially in deeper leagues. With Aaron Nesmith out and Andrew Nembhard questionable, Ben Mathurin and Jarace Walker are set to see increased roles, potentially stepping into starting positions or gaining extra minutes.
Lauri Markkanen’s return from back spasms is imminent, which is great news for fantasy managers. In Philadelphia, Joel Embiid’s absence isn’t surprising, but Paul George’s expected return is a significant development. Despite being listed as questionable, reports suggest George is ready to play, albeit with a possible minutes restriction. This isn’t a long-term injury, so expect him to be back in full swing soon.
Player Performances: Who’s Stepping Up?
The Detroit Pistons secured a road win against the Brooklyn Nets, showcasing improved play compared to last season. Jalen Duren stood out with a solid performance, contributing 13 points, 17 rebounds, four assists, and three blocks. His increased minutes were partly due to Isaiah Stewart fouling out, but it’s a positive sign for Duren’s fantasy value.
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Pelicans podcasts.
Willie Green’s critical moment: Can the New Orleans Pelicans turn it around? The New Orleans Pelicans face a critical stretch as they navigate a challenging four-game homestand. With key players like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram on the court, the team has yet to meet expectations.
Zion Williamson and the New Orleans Pelicans fail to show up AGAIN Pelicans’ Struggles: Can They Bounce Back? The New Orleans Pelicans face a challenging period after two disappointing losses to the Warriors, even without Steph Curry. Zion Williamson’s unexpected poor performance, scoring just 12 points on 5 of 20 shooting, raises questions about the team’s current form.
Is firing head coach Willie Green the next move for the New Orleans Pelicans? Can the New Orleans Pelicans turn their season around after a crushing 124-106 defeat to the Golden State Warriors? With head coach Willie Green under scrutiny, the Pelicans’ struggles with three-point shooting and turnovers are in the spotlight.
