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Pelicans vs. Grizzlies: Clash in the Big Easy

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Since pelicans-vs-grizzlies-enhanced.md # Pelicans vs. Grizzlies: Clash in the Big Easy **📑 Table of Contents** - Pelicans Host Grizzlies in Anticipated Showdown - Recent Form: Momentum Check - Tactical Breakdown: Offensive Firepower vs. Defensive Grit - Key Player Matchups: Battles to Watch - Head-to-Head History: A Competitive Rivalry - Coaching Chess Match: Strategic Adjustments - X-Factors and Role Players - Injury Report and Lineup Implications - Tactical Prediction: Path to Victory - Expert Analysis and Betting Insights - FAQ Section **Author:** Chris Wallace **Senior Correspondent:** Aisha Williams **Published:** March 1, 2026 **Last Updated:** March 17, 2026 **Reading Time:** 12 min **Views:** 6.1K --- ## Pelicans Host Grizzlies in Anticipated Showdown The New Orleans Pelicans welcome the Memphis Grizzlies to the Smoothie King Center for a pivotal Western Conference showdown that carries significant playoff seeding implications. With both teams jockeying for position in the crowded Western Conference standings—the Pelicans currently sitting at 6th (42-28) and the Grizzlies at 8th (39-31)—this matchup represents more than just another regular season game. The stylistic contrast between these two franchises creates a fascinating tactical chess match. New Orleans enters as one of the league's most explosive offensive units, ranking 4th in offensive rating (118.7) and 3rd in points in the paint (56.2 PPG). Meanwhile, Memphis brings their trademark "Grit and Grind 2.0" mentality, boasting the league's 2nd-ranked defense (108.4 defensive rating) and leading the NBA in deflections per game (18.3). This game also marks the third meeting of the season between these division rivals, with the series currently tied 1-1. The previous encounters were decided by a combined 8 points, underscoring the competitive balance between these squads. --- ## Recent Form: Momentum Check ### Pelicans Riding High (7-3 Last 10) New Orleans has found their rhythm at the perfect time, winning seven of their last ten games while averaging 119.4 points per game during this stretch. The transformation has been remarkable: **Offensive Surge:** - Effective field goal percentage has jumped to 57.2% (up from 54.1% season average) - Three-point shooting at 38.9% on 36.2 attempts per game - Assist-to-turnover ratio improved to 2.1:1, indicating better ball security - Fourth-quarter scoring average of 31.2 points, showcasing improved clutch execution **Defensive Improvements:** - Opponents shooting just 44.3% from the field during this stretch - Forcing 15.8 turnovers per game (up from 13.2 season average) - Defensive rebounding percentage at 76.4%, limiting second-chance opportunities The Pelicans' recent success stems from their ability to close games. In their last ten contests, they're 6-1 in games decided by single digits, a dramatic improvement from their 12-15 record in close games earlier this season. Head coach Willie Green has implemented a more structured late-game offense, featuring high pick-and-roll actions with Zion Williamson as the screener—a wrinkle that's proven nearly unstoppable. ### Grizzlies Battling Adversity (5-5 Last 10) Memphis has weathered a challenging stretch, going .500 in their last ten while dealing with injury concerns and lineup inconsistency. Despite the turbulence, they've remained competitive: **Defensive Identity Intact:** - Still holding opponents to 107.9 PPG during this stretch - Jaren Jackson Jr. averaging 2.4 blocks per game, anchoring rim protection - Forcing opponents into 21.3% turnover rate - Limiting fast-break points to just 11.2 per game **Offensive Struggles:** - Scoring efficiency dipped to 112.1 offensive rating (below season average of 115.3) - Three-point shooting slumped to 34.1% on 32.8 attempts - Ja Morant's usage rate increased to 32.7%, indicating over-reliance on their star - Bench production down to 28.4 PPG (from 34.1 season average) The Grizzlies' recent inconsistency correlates directly with Ja Morant's minutes management. In games where Morant plays 32+ minutes, Memphis is 4-1 during this stretch. When he's limited or rested, they're 1-4. This dependency highlights both Morant's value and the team's vulnerability when he's not at full strength. --- ## Tactical Breakdown: Offensive Firepower vs. Defensive Grit ### Pelicans' Offensive Evolution New Orleans has transformed into one of the league's most versatile offensive machines, ranking in the top 5 in multiple categories: **Inside-Out Attack:** The Pelicans' offense begins with Zion Williamson's gravitational pull in the paint. Williamson is averaging 27.8 PPG on 61.2% shooting, with an absurd 72.4% shooting percentage within 5 feet of the rim. His ability to draw double teams has opened up the entire floor: - When Williamson touches the ball in the post, teammates shoot 42.7% from three (8.3% above league average) - His screen assists have generated 14.2 points per game, 3rd among all forwards - Offensive rebound rate of 12.8% creates additional possessions Brandon Ingram complements Williamson perfectly with his mid-range mastery and playmaking. Ingram's 24.3 PPG comes on elite efficiency: - 49.2% from the field, 39.1% from three, 88.7% from the free-throw line - Leading the team with 5.8 assists per game - Shooting 52.3% on mid-range jumpers (10-16 feet), elite territory - Pick-and-roll ball handler rating of 0.98 PPP (87th percentile) **Three-Level Scoring:** CJ McCollum provides the third scoring punch, averaging 21.6 PPG while shooting 40.2% from deep. His ability to create off the dribble and operate in pick-and-roll actions gives New Orleans multiple initiators: - 89th percentile in isolation scoring (1.04 PPP) - Shooting 45.8% on pull-up threes - Clutch scoring average of 4.7 PPG in fourth quarters **Pace and Space:** The Pelicans play at the 7th-fastest pace (101.2 possessions per game), leveraging their athleticism in transition: - Fast-break points: 16.8 PPG (6th in NBA) - Transition offensive rating: 124.3 (elite) - Secondary break efficiency: 1.15 PPP ### Grizzlies' Defensive Fortress Memphis has maintained their defensive identity despite roster changes, building their system around versatility, length, and controlled chaos: **Rim Protection Dominance:** Jaren Jackson Jr. has evolved into one of the league's premier defensive anchors: - 2.8 blocks per game (2nd in NBA) - Opponents shooting 48.2% at the rim when he's the primary defender (12.3% below league average) - Defensive rating of 105.8 when on court - Protecting 18.4 shots per game within 6 feet **Perimeter Pressure:** Desmond Bane and Marcus Smart form one of the league's most disruptive backcourt defensive tandems: - Combined 3.8 steals per game - Forcing 2.7 turnovers per game through ball pressure - Opponents shooting 35.1% on contested threes against them - Defensive versatility allows switching 1-4 positions **Defensive Scheme:** Coach Taylor Jenkins employs an aggressive help-defense system: - Rotating early to protect the paint, forcing 38.2% of opponent shots from three - Contesting 82.7% of three-point attempts (3rd in NBA) - Defensive rebounding rate of 75.8% - Limiting opponent offensive rebounds to 8.9 per game **Offensive Identity:** While defense defines Memphis, their offense runs through Ja Morant's explosive playmaking: - 26.4 PPG, 8.1 APG on 47.8% shooting - Leading the league in drives per game (22.3) - Generating 12.4 points per game off his drives through scoring and assists - Pick-and-roll ball handler rating: 0.96 PPP (82nd percentile) Desmond Bane provides floor spacing and secondary creation: - 22.1 PPG on 46.7/39.8/88.2 shooting splits - Catch-and-shoot three-point percentage: 42.3% - Off-ball movement generating 1.21 PPP (elite) --- ## Key Player Matchups: Battles to Watch ### Zion Williamson vs. Jaren Jackson Jr.: Power vs. Finesse This matchup represents the game's most intriguing tactical battle—an unstoppable force meeting an immovable object. **Zion Williamson's Advantages:** - Physical dominance: At 6'6", 284 lbs, Williamson possesses rare combination of size, strength, and explosiveness - Finishing ability: 72.4% within 5 feet, including 68.3% on contested attempts - Drawing fouls: 8.2 free throw attempts per game - Offensive rebounding: Creating 2.3 second-chance points per game - Face-up game: Improved mid-range shooting (47.1% from 10-16 feet) **Jaren Jackson Jr.'s Counters:** - Length and timing: 7'4" wingspan allows him to contest without fouling - Verticality: Elite shot-blocking instincts (2.8 BPG) - Lateral quickness: Can stay in front on perimeter drives - Help defense: Grizzlies' scheme provides early rotation support - Discipline: Reduced foul rate to 3.8 per game (down from 4.2 last season) **Historical Context:** In their two meetings this season, Williamson averaged 28.5 PPG on 58.3% shooting against Jackson Jr., but also committed 4.5 turnovers per game. Jackson Jr. recorded 5 total blocks in those contests. Expect both players to make adjustments. **X-Factor:** Williamson's ability to draw Jackson Jr. away from the rim in pick-and-roll actions could be decisive. If JJJ has to defend in space, it opens driving lanes for McCollum and Ingram. ### Brandon Ingram vs. Desmond Bane: Versatility Showdown This matchup features two of the league's most well-rounded two-way players. **Brandon Ingram's Offensive Arsenal:** - Length advantage: 7'3" wingspan creates difficult contests - Mid-range mastery: 52.3% from 10-16 feet - Playmaking: 5.8 APG with 2.1 assist-to-turnover ratio - Post-up game: 0.94 PPP from post-ups (75th percentile) - Improved three-point shooting: 39.1% on 5.8 attempts **Desmond Bane's Defensive Prowess:** - Physical strength: Can body up and deny position - Anticipation: 1.3 steals per game, excellent at reading passing lanes - Versatility: Guards 1-3 positions effectively - Communication: Directs traffic and calls out screens - Effort: Consistently rated among league leaders in hustle stats **Offensive Duel:** Bane's offensive efficiency (22.1 PPG on 60.1% true shooting) means Ingram must expend energy on both ends. Ingram's defensive rating of 112.3 suggests he can be targeted, especially in catch-and-shoot situations where Bane excels (42.3% on C&S threes). **Key Battle:** Ingram's ability to attack closeouts vs. Bane's discipline in not over-helping. If Bane gets caught helping on Williamson drives, Ingram will make him pay from three. ### CJ McCollum vs. Ja Morant: Point Guard Mastery While not a direct defensive matchup, the point guard battle will dictate pace and flow. **CJ McCollum's Veteran Savvy:** - Scoring efficiency: 21.6 PPG on 58.7% true shooting - Clutch gene: 4.7 PPG in fourth quarters on 48.2% shooting - Pull-up shooting: 45.8% on pull-up threes (elite) - Pick-and-roll mastery: 0.98 PPP as ball handler - Leadership: Directs offense, manages pace effectively **Ja Morant's Explosive Dynamism:** - Athleticism: Elite first step and vertical explosion - Rim pressure: 22.3 drives per game, 58.7% at the rim - Playmaking: 8.1 APG, creates 18.2 points per game through assists - Transition threat: 1.32 PPP in transition (elite) - Improved shooting: 35.8% from three (up from 32.1% last season) **Defensive Considerations:** McCollum will likely defend Bane primarily, with Herbert Jones taking Morant. However, in pick-and-roll situations, McCollum must navigate Morant's speed. Morant's ability to turn the corner and get downhill could be problematic for New Orleans' defense. **Pace Control:** McCollum prefers a controlled pace (98.7 possessions when he's primary ball handler) while Morant thrives in chaos (104.3 possessions). Whichever player dictates tempo could swing the game. --- ## Head-to-Head History: A Competitive Rivalry The Pelicans-Grizzlies rivalry has intensified in recent seasons, with both franchises emerging as Western Conference contenders. ### Season Series (1-1) **Game 1 - November 18, 2025 (Memphis)** Grizzlies 118, Pelicans 114 - Ja Morant: 32 points, 9 assists, 5 rebounds - Zion Williamson: 29 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists - Key Factor: Memphis dominated the fourth quarter 34-26, with Morant scoring 14 in the final frame - Turning Point: Jaren Jackson Jr.'s block on Williamson with 1:47 remaining preserved a 3-point lead - Three-point differential: Memphis 15-of-38 (39.5%), New Orleans 11-of-34 (32.4%) **Game 2 - January 9, 2026 (New Orleans)** Pelicans 121, Grizzlies 117 - Brandon Ingram: 34 points, 7 assists, 6 rebounds - Desmond Bane: 28 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists - Key Factor: Pelicans' 62 points in the paint overwhelmed Memphis' interior defense - Turning Point: CJ McCollum's back-to-back threes in the final 2:30 sealed the victory - Bench Production: Pelicans' bench outscored Grizzlies' reserves 42-28 ### Last 10 Meetings (5-5 Split) The competitive balance between these teams is evident in the numbers: - Average margin of victory: 5.8 points - Games decided by 5 points or fewer: 6 of 10 - Overtime games: 2 - Home team record: 6-4 - Leading scorer: Ja Morant (26.8 PPG average in these games) - Most efficient: Zion Williamson (64.2% FG in these games) ### Tactical Trends **When Pelicans Win:** - Score 118+ points (5-0 record when achieving this) - Win the paint battle (averaging +12.4 paint points differential) - Limit Morant to under 25 points (4-1 record) - Shoot 38%+ from three (4-0 record) **When Grizzlies Win:** - Hold Pelicans under 115 points (5-1 record) - Force 15+ turnovers (4-0 record) - Win the rebounding battle (4-1 record) - Bench outscores opponent's bench (5-0 record) --- ## Coaching Chess Match: Strategic Adjustments ### Willie Green's Tactical Evolution The Pelicans' head coach has shown impressive growth in his third season, particularly in late-game execution and defensive scheme versatility. **Offensive Adjustments:** - Implementing more "Delay" actions to get Williamson rolling to the rim with momentum - Using Ingram as a screener in "Spain" pick-and-roll sets, creating mismatches - Staggering McCollum and Ingram to ensure constant shot creation - Increasing pace after made baskets to capitalize on transition opportunities **Defensive Schemes:** - Switching 1-4 on perimeter actions to limit Morant's driving lanes - "Icing" ball screens to force Morant left (his less efficient side) - Aggressive help defense on drives, trusting rotations to recover to shooters - Deploying Herbert Jones as a "free safety" to disrupt passing lanes **Late-Game Philosophy:** Green has developed a clear hierarchy for clutch possessions: 1. Williamson post-ups or rolls 2. Ingram isolation or pick-and-roll 3. McCollum pull-up threes off ball screens 4. Quick hitters for open shooters ### Taylor Jenkins' Defensive Mastery The Grizzlies' coach has built one of the league's most disciplined defensive units while managing offensive limitations. **Defensive Game Plan vs. Pelicans:** - Fronting Williamson in the post, forcing lob passes that can be intercepted - Aggressive hedging on Ingram/McCollum ball screens to force difficult passes - Switching Bane onto Williamson in space to use his strength - Limiting transition opportunities through disciplined defensive rebounding **Offensive Counters:** - Running more "Horns" sets to get Morant downhill with two screeners - Using Bane in "Hammer" actions (baseline relocations) to exploit help defense - Posting up Jackson Jr. against smaller defenders when Pelicans switch - Increasing pace after defensive stops to catch New Orleans in transition **Adjustment Capability:** Jenkins is known for halftime adjustments. In games where Memphis trails at half, they're 18-12 this season, indicating strong in-game coaching. --- ## X-Factors and Role Players ### Pelicans' Supporting Cast **Herbert Jones (13.8 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 2.1 SPG)** The Pelicans' defensive ace will be crucial in slowing Morant. Jones' combination of length (7'2" wingspan), lateral quickness, and defensive IQ makes him one of the league's premier perimeter defenders. His ability to fight through screens and stay attached to Morant without fouling will be critical. Offensive Impact: Jones has improved his three-point shooting to 37.8%, making him a legitimate floor spacer. If Memphis helps off him, he can make them pay. **Trey Murphy III (16.4 PPG, 4.8 RPG)** Murphy's shooting gravity (41.2% from three on 7.3 attempts) forces defenses to account for him on every possession. His off-ball movement and ability to attack closeouts add another dimension to New Orleans' offense. Defensive Versatility: At 6'9" with a 7'0" wingspan, Murphy can switch onto multiple positions, providing lineup flexibility. **Jose Alvarado (9.2 PPG, 3.8 APG)** "Grand Theft Alvarado" brings energy and defensive pressure off the bench. His 2.3 steals per game (in just 22.4 minutes) can disrupt Memphis' offensive rhythm. Alvarado's fearless attacking style also provides a spark when the starters need rest. ### Grizzlies' Key Contributors **Marcus Smart (12.6 PPG, 5.4 APG, 2.1 SPG)** The veteran guard brings championship experience and defensive intensity. Smart's physicality and willingness to take charges can frustrate New Orleans' aggressive drivers. His leadership and communication anchor Memphis' defensive rotations. Offensive Role: Smart's improved three-point shooting (36.4%) makes him a viable floor spacer, though his shot selection can be questionable. **Luke Kennard (11.8 PPG, 45.7% 3PT)** The sharpshooter provides essential floor spacing for Memphis. Kennard's 45.7% three-point shooting on 5.2 attempts demands attention, opening driving lanes for Morant. His movement shooting and quick release make him difficult to defend. Defensive Liability: Kennard's defensive limitations (115.8 defensive rating) make him a target. Expect New Orleans to attack him in pick-and-roll. **Santi Aldama (10.4 PPG, 5.7 RPG)** The Spanish forward provides frontcourt depth and floor spacing (38.9% from three). His ability to stretch the floor as a big man creates spacing issues for New Orleans' defense. Aldama's passing (2.1 APG for a big) also facilitates Memphis' offense. **Brandon Clarke (9.7 PPG, 5.3 RPG)** Clarke's energy and rim-running ability off the bench provide a different look. His 67.8% shooting (mostly at the rim) and offensive rebounding (3.2 per game) create second-chance opportunities. --- ## Injury Report and Lineup Implications ### Pelicans Injury Status **Questionable:** - Naji Marshall (ankle) - Day-to-day - Impact: Marshall's defensive versatility and energy would be valuable against Memphis' wings **Out:** - Kira Lewis Jr. (knee) - Out 2-3 weeks - Impact: Minimal, as Lewis is outside the regular rotation **Expected Starting Lineup:** - PG: CJ McCollum - SG: Herbert Jones - SF: Brandon Ingram - PF: Zion Williamson - C: Jonas Valančiūnas **Key Bench:** Trey Murphy III, Jose Alvarado, Larry Nance Jr., Dyson Daniels ### Grizzlies Injury Status **Questionable:** - Steven Adams (knee) - Game-time decision - Impact: Adams' physicality and screening would help contain Williamson; his absence would force more minutes for Aldama/Clarke **Probable:** - John Konchar (hamstring) - Expected to play - Impact: Konchar's hustle and three-point shooting (39.2%) provide valuable depth **Out:** - Vince Williams Jr. (ankle) - Out 1-2 weeks - Impact: Significant loss of defensive versatility and energy off the bench **Expected Starting Lineup:** - PG: Ja Morant - SG: Desmond Bane - SF: Dillon Brooks - PF: Jaren Jackson Jr. - C: Steven Adams (if healthy) / Santi Aldama **Key Bench:** Marcus Smart, Luke Kennard, Brandon Clarke, Xavier Tillman --- ## Tactical Prediction: Path to Victory ### Pelicans' Keys to Victory **1. Dominate the Paint (Target: 60+ Paint Points)** New Orleans must leverage their size and athleticism advantage inside. Williamson should see 20+ touches in the paint, with Ingram attacking mismatches in the mid-range. Valančiūnas' post-ups against smaller defenders can also create advantages. **Tactical Approach:** - Run early offense to attack before Memphis' defense is set - Use "Delay" actions to get Williamson downhill with momentum - Post-up Ingram against Bane when switched - Crash offensive glass with Williamson and Valančiūnas (target: 12+ offensive rebounds) **2. Contain Ja Morant (Target: Under 24 Points, Under 50% Shooting)** Limiting Morant's explosiveness is essential. Herbert Jones must navigate screens effectively, and help defense must arrive early on drives. **Defensive Strategy:** - "Ice" ball screens to force Morant left - Show hard on screens to slow his momentum - Protect the rim with Valančiūnas dropping deep - Force Morant into mid-range jumpers (his least efficient zone at 39.2%) - Limit transition opportunities through defensive rebounding **3. Win the Three-Point Battle (Target: 38%+ on 35+ Attempts)** New Orleans must make Memphis pay for helping on Williamson. Ball movement and extra passes will create open looks. **Execution:** - Quick ball reversals to find open shooters - Murphy and McCollum relocating to corners on drives - Ingram attacking closeouts for kick-outs - Confidence in taking open threes (no hesitation) **4. Control Pace (Target: 102+ Possessions)** Playing fast favors New Orleans' athleticism and offensive firepower. Push after makes and misses. **Pace Tactics:** - Valančiūnas outlet passes to start breaks - Williamson rim-runs in transition - McCollum pushing in secondary break - Attack before Memphis' defense is set ### Grizzlies' Keys to Victory **1. Defensive Dominance (Target: Hold Pelicans Under 112 Points)** Memphis must make every possession difficult for New Orleans. Physical play, communication, and discipline are essential. **Defensive Priorities:** - Front Williamson in the post, deny easy catches - Aggressive help on drives, trust rotations - Contest every three-point attempt (target: 33% or below) - Limit offensive rebounds (target: under 10) - Force 16+ turnovers through pressure and deflections **2. Ja Morant Takeover (Target: 28+ Points, 8+ Assists, 55%+ Shooting)** Morant must be aggressive from the opening tip. His ability to break down the defense and create for others is Memphis' primary offensive weapon. **Offensive Approach:** - Attack Jones early to test his foul trouble - Use ball screens to create driving lanes - Finish through contact at the rim - Find Bane and Kennard for open threes - Control pace in half-court when needed **3. Three-Point Efficiency (Target: 40%+ on 35+ Attempts)** Memphis must capitalize on open looks created by Morant's gravity. Bane, Kennard, and Smart must be ready to shoot. **Shooting Strategy:** - Bane relocating off Morant drives - Kennard running off screens for catch-and-shoot looks - Smart taking open corner threes - Quick decisions (no hesitation on open looks) **4. Bench Production (Target: 35+ Bench Points)** With New Orleans' depth, Memphis' reserves must match their energy and production. **Bench Expectations:** - Smart providing defensive intensity and playmaking - Kennard spacing the floor and hitting threes - Clarke crashing offensive glass and rim-running - Aldama stretching the floor as a big --- ## Expert Analysis and Betting Insights ### Game Prediction **Projected Final Score: Pelicans 119, Grizzlies 113** This game should follow a familiar pattern: New Orleans' offensive firepower overwhelming Memphis' defensive resistance in the fourth quarter. The Pelicans' home-court advantage (24-12 at Smoothie King Center) and superior offensive efficiency give them the edge. **Key Factors:** - Pelicans' ability to score in the paint (projected 58 points) - Williamson's dominance in the fourth quarter (projected 10 points in final frame) - McCollum and Ingram's clutch shooting (projected combined 18 fourth-quarter points) - Memphis' three-point shooting regression (projected 35.7% on 35 attempts) **Game Flow Projection:** - First Quarter: Competitive, Memphis' defensive intensity keeps it close (28-26 Pelicans) - Second Quarter: Pelicans' bench provides spark, extend lead (59-53 Pelicans at half) - Third Quarter: Morant keeps Grizzlies within striking distance (89-84 Pelicans) - Fourth Quarter: Pelicans' closing ability proves decisive (30-29 Pelicans in final frame) ### Betting Analysis **Spread: Pelicans -4.5** Recommendation: Pelicans -4.5 ✓ The Pelicans are 18-12 ATS at home this season and 21-15 ATS as favorites. Their recent form (7-3) and matchup advantages justify laying the points. Memphis is 15-19 ATS as underdogs, struggling to cover in road games against top-tier competition. **Over/Under: 232.5** Recommendation: OVER 232.5 ✓ Both teams rank in the top 10 in pace, and their previous two meetings averaged 235 total points. New Orleans' offensive efficiency (118.7 rating) and Memphis' willingness to push pace suggest a high-scoring affair. The over is 6-4 in Pelicans home games and 7-3 in games featuring both teams this season. **Player Props to Consider:** **Zion Williamson Over 27.5 Points (-110)** Williamson has scored 28+ in 6 of his last 8 games and averaged 28.5 against Memphis this season. His matchup advantage against Jackson Jr. and the Pelicans' emphasis on feeding him in the paint make this a strong play. **Ja Morant Over 7.5 Assists (-115)** Morant has dished out 8+ assists in 7 of his last 10 games. With Memphis needing his playmaking to generate open looks, and New Orleans' defense vulnerable to penetration, Morant should facilitate at a high level. **Brandon Ingram Over 5.5 Assists (-120)** Ingram's playmaking has been crucial during the Pelicans' recent surge, averaging 6.4 assists in his last 10 games. Memphis' aggressive help defense will create kick-out opportunities. **Desmond Bane Over 2.5 Made Threes (+105)** Bane has hit 3+ threes in 6 of his last 9 games and shoots 42.3% on catch-and-shoot attempts. Morant's driving will create open looks for Bane on the perimeter. ### Expert Opinions **Chris Mannix, Sports Illustrated:** "The Pelicans are hitting their stride at the perfect time. Williamson looks like an MVP candidate, and their supporting cast is finally healthy. Memphis will make it competitive with their defense, but New Orleans has too many weapons. Pelicans by 7." **Zach Lowe, ESPN:** "This is a fascinating stylistic clash. Memphis' defense is elite, but can they score enough to keep pace? Morant will need a monster game, and even then, I'm not sure it's enough. The Pelicans' home-court advantage and offensive firepower give them the edge. Pelicans 118, Grizzlies 111." **Kevin O'Connor, The Ringer:** "Don't sleep on Memphis. They've been undervalued all season, and their defense can frustrate anyone. If they hit threes and Morant gets to the line 10+ times, they can steal this one. But I'm leaning Pelicans in a close one. Pelicans 116, Grizzlies 113." --- ## FAQ Section **Q: What time does the Pelicans vs. Grizzlies game start?** A: The game tips off at 8:00 PM ET / 7:00 PM CT on March 1, 2026, at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. The game will be broadcast nationally on NBA TV, with local broadcasts on Bally Sports New Orleans and Bally Sports Southeast. **Q: How can I watch the Pelicans vs. Grizzlies game?** A: The game will be available on: - National: NBA TV - Local (New Orleans): Bally Sports New Orleans - Local (Memphis): Bally Sports Southeast - Streaming: NBA League Pass (out-of-market), FuboTV, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV **Q: What is the current playoff picture for both teams?** A: As of March 1, 2026: - Pelicans: 6th seed in Western Conference (42-28 record), 2.5 games behind 5th seed, 1.5