Pelicans fight to end six-game losing streak against Grizzlies

In the United States, the New Orleans Pelicans are preparing to face the Memphis Grizzlies on the evening of November 29, 2024. The Pelicans enter this matchup on a troubling six-game losing streak, which puts them at a 4-15 record, placing them at the bottom of the Western Conference standings. Their struggles this season have been compounded by injuries, with key player Zion Williamson out due to a hamstring injury. In contrast, the Memphis Grizzlies hold a considerably better record of 12-7, currently ranked fourth in the Western Conference. The Grizzlies, having shown solid performance against Western Conference teams with a record of 5-4, are led by Jaren Jackson Jr., who has been a standout player averaging 22.2 points per game. The upcoming game marks the first meeting between these two teams for the season. Both teams have been impacted by injuries, although the Grizzlies maintain a stronger overall health status. The Pelicans will have to contend with not only their losing streak but also the challenge of competing against a team that excels in key metrics such as assists, where they lead the league with an average of 30.1 assists per game. The Grizzlies’ ability to make an average of 12.9 three-pointers per game further adds to the challenging dynamics the Pelicans face. New Orleans aims to counter their recent poor performance, averaging only 98.3 points over their last ten games, versus the Grizzlies’ robust average of 123.1 points in the same stretch. The Pelicans have often struggled to keep opposing teams from capitalizing on their defensive shortcomings, which has led to an average of 113.1 points allowed in their last ten games. This noticeable discrepancy in offensive output could be pivotal in determining the outcome of their upcoming game. Looking ahead to this match, the Pelicans are hopeful that players who are day-to-day, such as Brandon Ingram, could potentially return to strengthen their lineup. The Grizzlies look to capitalize on their current momentum against a struggling Pelicans team, which might turn the tide for the latter if they can rediscover their form and overcome their injury woes.