Game Preview: Spurs vs. Pelicans
In a significant matchup on Sunday evening at 7 p.m. EST, the San Antonio Spurs (31-14) will host the New Orleans Pelicans (11-36) as they aim to extend their current four-game winning streak at home. This contest is particularly critical for the Spurs, who currently sit in second place in the Western Conference and hold an impressive record of 18 wins and 12 losses against Western rivals.
Team Performance
The Spurs are known for their high-scoring offense, averaging 117.9 points per game, coupled with a favorable scoring margin of 5.3 points.
Conversely, the Pelicans find themselves struggling at 4-7 within their division and are having a tough time defensively, giving up an average of 122.1 points per contest. Their overall point differential stands at -7.0 points per game. On the shooting front, New Orleans outperforms their division rivals with a shooting accuracy of 46.4%, which marginally exceeds the defensive statistics against the Spurs, whose opponents have shot at 46.0% this season.
Historical Context
Historically, the Spurs have had the upper hand in their previous encounters this season, winning three out of the first three games against New Orleans, including a close 135-132 victory in the latest encounter on December 9.
Key Players
Key players to watch include the Spurs’ Stephon Castle, who averages 16.9 points and 5.0 rebounds, and the highly touted Victor Wembanyama, who has been particularly fruitful lately with an average of 24.7 points and 9.2 rebounds over his last ten games. For the Pelicans, Trey Murphy III has been in fine form, contributing 22.3 points, six rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, along with Jordan Poole, noted for his 2.5 3-point shots per game in recent outings.
Injury Concerns
As the game approaches, both teams will navigate injury concerns; the Spurs’ Luke Kornet is day to day due to an adductor issue, while Devin Vassell remains sidelined with a thigh injury. The Pelicans will be without Jose Alvarado (oblique) and Dejounte Murray (leg).
Conclusion
This matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter, weighing heavily on the fortunes of both teams in their respective conferences.
