The New Orleans Pelicans (15-43) are set to face the Phoenix Suns (27-31) on Friday, February 28, 2025, at 9:00 PM ET at PHX Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. This Western Conference matchup is crucial for both teams as they aim to improve their standings amid a challenging season.
Team Performance and Recent Form
New Orleans Pelicans
The Pelicans have struggled throughout the season but have shown flashes of competitiveness. In their recent 109-103 win over the San Antonio Spurs, Zion Williamson led the charge with 28 points and 7 rebounds, while Trey Murphy III contributed 15.4 points off the bench. Despite these individual efforts, New Orleans’ overall performance has been hampered by inconsistent defense, as they allow around 116.5 points per game. The team will need to tighten up on that end to challenge a dynamic Phoenix offense.
Phoenix Suns
The Suns are looking to rebound after a rough five-game stretch on the road, where they lost four out of five games. In their recent 151-148 overtime loss to the Memphis Grizzlies, Devin Booker showcased his scoring ability with 28 points and 10 assists, while Kevin Durant added 26.7 points and 7.1 rebounds. Although Phoenix’s defense has been somewhat inconsistent—allowing roughly 118.3 points per game—their offensive firepower and home-court advantage make them formidable.
Head-to-Head Matchup
This is the second meeting between the Pelicans and the Suns this season. In their previous encounter on December 15, 2024, New Orleans edged out Phoenix with a 106-99 victory. Historically, the series has been competitive, with both teams trading wins. The Suns will look to leverage their home-court advantage to even the series.
Key Players to Watch
New Orleans Pelicans:
- Zion Williamson – The explosive forward is averaging around 25.1 points and 6.1 rebounds per game; his performance in the paint will be key.
- Trey Murphy III – A reliable scorer off the bench, providing perimeter shooting and energy, averaging 15.4 points per game.
Phoenix Suns:
- Devin Booker – A dynamic scorer averaging 28.3 points and 6.5 assists per game, Booker is central to Phoenix’s offensive attack.
- Kevin Durant – When healthy, Durant is a matchup nightmare, averaging 26.7 points and 7.1 rebounds per game, contributing significantly on both ends of the floor.
Game Outlook and Prediction
This game pits the Pelicans’ need for a turnaround against the Suns’ offensive prowess and home-court advantage. New Orleans must rely on Zion Williamson’s dominance in the paint and Trey Murphy III’s perimeter shooting to slow down Phoenix’s transition game. However, if the Suns can maintain their offensive rhythm, especially with Booker and Durant leading the way, they should be able to secure the victory.
Prediction: Phoenix Suns 112, New Orleans Pelicans 104
Broadcast Info: Fans can watch the game live on Bally Sports Arizona at 9:00 PM ET.
