Zion Williamson and the Pelicans Seek a Home-Court Spark Against Brooklyn

The Pelicans watched a close game slip away in Los Angeles on Nov. 8, but their most exciting stretch showed what they can become. They raced in front during the third quarter, with Jeremiah Fears creating a steal-and-score burst and Trey Murphy III stretching the floor. Now New Orleans returns home Wednesday night to face a Brooklyn team searching for its own turning point.

As of Nov. 9, the Pelicans are 4-6 and the Nets are 2-8. Both teams arrive after losses, which gives this matchup extra energy. New Orleans wants to turn its fast, talented offense into more wins. Brooklyn wants its young group to prove it can stay connected after a tough 130-93 loss to Dallas on Nov. 8.

The biggest question in New Orleans is who will be ready. Murphy is listed out with knee soreness and Zion Williamson is listed out for rest, though both have a Nov. 11 expected return date. Their statuses are worth watching right up to game time. Williamson is the Pelicans’ powerful rim attacker, scoring 21 points per game while making nearly 63 percent of his shots. When he charges toward the basket, defenders must crowd him, which can open room for teammates.

Murphy brings a different kind of danger. The 6-foot-8 forward can rise for threes, drive when defenders rush at him, and finish above the rim. If either star is limited, Fears may need to keep taking on a larger role. He scored 25 points against the Clippers, using quick drives and timely outside shots. Dejounte Murray can also steady the action with his passing, rebounding, and long reach on defense.

New Orleans has scored 120.5 points per game, far more than Brooklyn’s 106.7. The Pelicans also shoot 48.6 percent from the field, showing they often create good looks near the basket. Yet they give away 16.9 turnovers per game, and that can turn a strong attack into easy chances for the other side. Brooklyn has its own ball-control problem at 18.1 turnovers a night, so the team that stays calm with the ball could grab control early.

The Nets have two sturdy scorers ready for that challenge. Julius Randle uses strength and sharp passing to organize the offense, while Michael Porter Jr. can shoot over defenders with his high release. Porter leads Brooklyn at 21.5 points per game and also pulls down 7.7 rebounds, giving the Nets help on both ends. Center Day’Ron Sharpe adds physical rebounding and can create extra chances around the hoop.

Brooklyn’s guard situation is also important. Egor Demin is listed out with a Nov. 11 expected return date, while Mikel Brown Jr. is day-to-day. If those young creators cannot play, Randle and Porter may carry even more of the offense.

This game could swing on New Orleans’ speed and defensive pressure. The Pelicans collect 11.2 steals per game, and Herb Jones’ disruptive wing defense can make passing lanes feel crowded. Brooklyn must answer with patient ball movement and strong work on the glass.

The Nets have the scorers to make this interesting, especially if Porter catches fire. Still, New Orleans has been more productive, owns the stronger record through Nov. 9, and plays at home. Prediction: the Pelicans find enough energy and defensive stops to win.