The New Orleans Pelicans are set to face the Charlotte Hornets on Monday for their 52nd game of the season. This match comes before the impending trade deadline, making it a potentially pivotal moment for the Pelicans’ roster. Fans can catch the action at 3 PM EST, as the game schedule was adjusted due to adverse weather conditions in Charlotte.
Injury Updates and Team Health
Both teams enter this matchup in relatively good health. The Pelicans have only one player listed as out. Dejounte Murray remains sidelined as he continues to recover from a ruptured Achilles tendon, while the rest of the roster is healthy.
- Pelicans’ Out: Dejounte Murray
For the Hornets, the injury report is also minimal. Veteran backup center Mason Plumlee is confirmed to miss the game, while Josh Green is listed as probable due to a thumb sprain. Additionally, Tidjane Salaun and Liam McNeeley are unavailable due to G League assignments.
The Hornets’ Recent Success
The Hornets have been one of the most impressive teams in the league recently. Currently sitting at 22-28 for the season, they have won their last six games, putting them in a strong position for a playoff push.
- 2026 Highlights:
- Leading the NBA with a 12.0 net rating
- Highest offensive rating in the league
- Third-best defensive rating
This recent surge in performance is due in part to changes made by head coach James Borrego, who previously led the Hornets from 2018 to 2022. Notably, dynamic rookie Jeremiah Fears has been benched, while Jordan Poole has also been excluded from the rotation. The Hornets are now utilizing a different strategy to maximize their offensive potential.
The Pelicans’ Tactical Adjustments
In contrast, the Pelicans have adopted a guard-less starting lineup featuring Herb Jones, Trey Murphy, Saddiq Bey, Zion Williamson, and Derik Queen. This lineup has produced satisfactory results, contributing to a 3-2 record over their last five games.
Herb Jones’ presence has been particularly significant. The team’s performance without him has been notably poor, with a record of 3-20 compared to 10-18 with him on the court. His defensive skills will be crucial against the Hornets’ high-octane attack.
Key Matchup to Watch
The showdown will showcase a significant matchup between the Pelicans’ wing trio and the Hornets’ explosive offense, led by LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and star rookie Kon Knueppel. How well the Pelicans can contain this trio will be vital to their success on Monday.
Fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating this clash, which promises to serve as a critical test for both squads as they navigate the remainder of the season.
