The New Orleans Pelicans won’t have much rest entering Saturday night’s game against the Utah Jazz in Salt Lake City, but they do have plenty of momentum.
The Jazz are the opposite. They’ve been struggling and have had plenty of time to think about it.
While the Pelicans picked up a 116-106 road win over the Los Angeles Clippers late Friday night, Utah rested at home after not playing since a rough 121-105 loss Wednesday at Portland.
The Jazz’s struggles — only four wins in 15 games, including four straight losses — have been challenging Utah coach Will Hardy in his second season. He made it clear that he’s not satisfied with the lackluster performances.
Kelly Olynyk was inserted into the starting lineup against the Blazers, and more changes could be in store.
Hardy emphasized that he isn’t a critic of the Jazz and expects a team effort.
New Orleans comes into Utah for games on Saturday and Monday having won three games in a row and five of six. The Pelicans held on to their West Group B lead in pool play of the NBA in-season tournament with their win in Los Angeles.
Pelicans coach Willie Green attributed his team’s success to discipline, consistency, and trust.
It helps that the Pelicans’ two stars are on the court together. On Friday, Zion Williamson had 32 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals in the victory, while Brandon Ingram totaled 30 points and five assists.
