The New Orleans Pelicans are enduring an arduous stretch this NBA season, recently suffering their sixth consecutive defeat at the hands of the Toronto Raptors, who decisively outscored them 119-93. This recent loss is a pivotal moment for the Pelicans, who now hold a 4-15 record in the competitive Western Conference standings. The challenges faced this season have only been compounded by injuries to key players, leaving the team in a difficult position.
Struggles and Setbacks
The Pelicans are struggling without the services of Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, Trey Murphy, Herb Jones, and Jose Alvarado, all of whom are currently sidelined due to injuries. This injury-hit lineup has forced head coach Willie Green to maneuver through a tough season with a depleted roster. Adding to the challenge, players like Dejounte Murray and CJ McCollum have just returned after extended absences due to their own injuries — Murray missing 17 games with a fractured hand and McCollum out for 13 games.
Despite these setbacks, the team is striving to maintain its competitive edge. "When you've got guys in, guys out, it's really tough. But I think it's not tough to compete,” remarked the newly-returned Dejounte Murray, underscoring the need for consistent effort, regardless of the circumstances.
Troubling Defeat
The game against the Raptors was particularly disheartening for New Orleans. The Raptors, who had yet to secure a road victory in 11 attempts this season, found their rhythm at the Pelicans' expense by sinking a season-high 21 three-pointers. This performance was met with a raw acknowledgment from the Pelicans' locker room. "We allowed a team to come on our home floor and really make us look soft. That can't happen,” commented Willie Green, pointing to the need for the team to exhibit more toughness.
This sentiment was echoed by CJ McCollum, who added, "Either they got better overnight, or we've got to do a better job closing out and making it more difficult." The team’s recent struggles are not lost on the players, with Dejounte Murray expressing a poignant reflection on their situation: "If you're not embarrassed and really mad about this, that's a problem.”
The Road Ahead
With 63 games remaining in the season, there is still ample time for the Pelicans to change their course, but the urgency is palpable. "Time is ticking. And it isn't getting any easier,” McCollum emphasized, acknowledging the pressing need for the team to regroup. As they prepare for an upcoming bout against the Memphis Grizzlies, maintaining a focus on resilience and competitiveness remains paramount. Murray's comments on the gravity of their situation after the Raptors game shed light on the mindset needed to steer the team through turbulent times: "As soon as we get on that plane, we got to lock in to understanding what just happened.”
Looking to find momentum and cohesion in a time when support from fans contrasts sharply with empty arenas during their losing streak, the Pelicans face immense pressure. Reflecting on the fans’ perspective, Murray mused, "Like, even the fans booing... I mean, what would you do if you was a fan paying your money?" This self-awareness signals a team introspective about its path forward.
Ultimately, the Pelicans’ quest for a turnaround is shaped by a confluence of adversity, self-reflection, and an unwavering push to rise above their current challenges. With players returning to the lineup and a slew of games ahead, the opportunity for recalibration and resurgence remains a possibility worth pursuing.