The Phoenix Suns, currently holding a 5-5 record, are set to clash with the struggling New Orleans Pelicans, who sit at 2-7, tonight at 7:00 PM Arizona Time at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix. Fans can catch the game on Arizona’s Family 3TV, Arizona’s Family Sports, and NBATV, or listen in on KMVP 98.7 and KSUN.
After a promising stretch of 4-1 in their last five games, the Suns are eager to maintain their momentum and secure their first record above .500 since the season opener against Sacramento. The Pelicans, on the other hand, are navigating a turbulent season marked by injuries, missing key players such as Zion Williamson and Yves Missi. Despite winning two of their last three games, their overall performance has waned, making them a team in desperate need of direction.
Both teams face struggles that could impact the game’s outcome. The Suns must focus on converting their extra possessions into points—an area they’ve been working on since the offseason. With a high emphasis on creating turnovers and securing rebounds, the matchup against the Pelicans presents an opportunity. While New Orleans ranks well for ball protection, their rebounding percentage falls short, indicating potential chances for the Suns to capitalize.
In the injury department, the Suns will be without Jalen Green due to a right hamstring issue. The Pelicans have multiple injuries affecting their roster, including key players like Dejounte Murray and Jordan Poole missing the game.
The Suns, filled with newfound confidence, have learned valuable lessons from earlier losses this season. As they face the Pelicans—a matchup they are favored to win—they will need to demonstrate composure and control if they wish to establish themselves as a formidable team in the league. The initial moments of the game will likely set the tone for the rest of the matchup.
Expectations are rising for a team that has shown resilience in overcoming challenges. If the Suns can maintain their sharp shooting, particularly from beyond the arc, they are positioned well to take the win. Given their improving form and the Pelicans’ injury woes, a strong performance tonight could redefine the Suns’ trajectory this season. The prediction is a tight contest, but the Suns are expected to edge out New Orleans with a final score of 128-120.