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News Article

Trail Blazers Face Pelicans in New Orleans, Aim to Snap Losing Streak

NEW ORLEANS, LA – The Portland Trail Blazers (14-20) travel to the Smoothie King Center tonight to face the New Orleans Pelicans (8-27) in the second matchup between the two teams this season. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:00 PM Pacific.

Portland is looking to bounce back after a loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, seeking to avoid a losing streak on this three-game road trip. The Pelicans, however, are desperately seeking a win after suffering five consecutive losses.

The Pelicans dominated the first meeting 143-120, back on December 11th. However, a key difference this time around is the presence of a healthy Zion Williamson, who was sidelined in the previous game. Williamson is on a tear, averaging 26.3 points in his last seven games, including back-to-back 30-point performances. Slowing him down will be crucial for Portland’s chances.

Both teams are dealing with significant injuries. Portland will be without Jerami Grant, Scoot Henderson, Jrue Holiday, Damian Lillard, Matisse Thybulle and Blake Wesley. The Pelicans will be without Dejounte Murray and Herb Jones, with Derik Queen and Saddiq Bey listed as questionable.

A key area to watch will be Portland’s ball security. The Blazers are last in the NBA in turnovers, while the Pelicans rank among the league’s best in steals. Limiting turnovers will be essential for Portland to control the game’s tempo and prevent easy transition opportunities for New Orleans.

Off the court, the Pelicans are evaluating interim head coach James Borrego, who is making a case for the full-time position. While the defense needs improvement, the Pelicans have displayed a high-tempo offense under Borrego, and the young players are showing improvement.

Fans can watch the game on the Rip City Television Network, stream it via BlazerVision (Oregon and Washington) or League Pass, or listen on the Trail Blazers Audio Network.

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