The New Orleans Pelicans and the Phoenix Suns have become increasingly important teams in the NBA, with both squads showcasing exciting, young talent and engaging in a number of memorable matchups. While not the most historic rivalry in the league, the Pelicans vs Suns games have generated a lot of excitement, especially in recent seasons when both teams have been in the playoff hunt.

In this article, we will take a deep dive into the latest updates surrounding the Pelicans vs Suns rivalry, explore key matchups, and analyze each team’s current performance. We’ll also address some frequently asked questions and provide insights into the players, strategies, and storylines that have made this rivalry so compelling in the modern NBA.

The New Orleans Pelicans’ Growth

The New Orleans Pelicans have had an up-and-down history in the NBA. From their inception in 2002 as the New Orleans Hornets (later renamed the Pelicans in 2013), the team has faced challenges in terms of consistency and success. However, in recent years, they have managed to rebuild and establish themselves as a competitive force in the Western Conference.

One of the most significant factors in their resurgence is the emergence of Zion Williamson. Drafted in 2019 as the first overall pick, Williamson quickly became the face of the franchise due to his explosive athleticism and scoring ability. Coupled with a strong supporting cast including Brandon Ingram, CJ McCollum, and a deep roster of young talent, the Pelicans have gradually positioned themselves as a team to watch. 

Their current trajectory points toward future playoff contention, and many fans believe that they could become a serious contender in the West if their key players can stay healthy and develop their game further.

The Phoenix Suns’ Competitive Push

The Phoenix Suns have experienced a similar resurgence in recent seasons, with their rise being most notably marked by their journey to the 2021 NBA Finals. After years of struggling, the Suns emerged as one of the top teams in the Western Conference, led by point guard Chris Paul and star forward Devin Booker.

The Suns’ success is attributed to a combination of veteran leadership from Paul and the development of their young players, including Deandre Ayton and Mikal Bridges. Under head coach Monty Williams, the Suns have become one of the most well-coached teams in the league, blending tough defense, ball movement, and dynamic scoring. In 2021, the Suns made their first Finals appearance in over 28 years, ultimately falling to the Milwaukee Bucks. However, they proved they were a legitimate threat in the West, and expectations for the team have only grown higher since.

Recent Matchups: Pelicans vs Suns

When the Pelicans and Suns meet on the court, it’s always a highly anticipated game due to their contrasting styles and emerging stars. In recent seasons, these matchups have had playoff implications, making them even more exciting for fans and analysts alike.

The 2023-2024 Season: Competitive and Tense

The 2023-2024 season was a particularly interesting one for both teams. While the Suns had been regarded as one of the top teams in the West for the last few years, the Pelicans were positioning themselves to take the next step toward playoff contention.

One of the key themes in the recent Pelicans vs Suns games has been Zion Williamson’s health. When Zion is healthy and playing at a high level, the Pelicans are a completely different team. His power and agility give New Orleans a significant edge on offense, but when he’s unavailable, the team struggles to match the Suns’ depth and shooting.

On the Suns’ side, Devin Booker and Kevin Durant have formed an intimidating duo. When both are on their game, the Suns are nearly unstoppable. Adding Deandre Ayton to the mix, the Suns have a formidable inside-outside game that gives them a balance between scoring, rebounding, and defense.

Playoff Implications

In the 2023-2024 season, their games also had significant playoff implications. The Suns were often battling for a top-four seed in the Western Conference, while the Pelicans, despite injuries and inconsistency, were vying for a spot in the middle of the pack. Their head-to-head matchups often felt like must-win games, and the intensity was palpable.

Notable Games

December 2023 – Pelicans vs Suns: In a thrilling game in New Orleans, the Pelicans edged out the Suns in a close contest. Brandon Ingram played a key role in the victory, contributing both as a scorer and playmaker. Zion Williamson’s dominant presence in the paint was also evident, leading to a strong performance for the Pelicans.

February 2024 – Suns vs Pelicans: In Phoenix, the Suns fought back from a slow start to secure a hard-fought win. Devin Booker and Kevin Durant showed why they are one of the league’s most dynamic duos, with Booker contributing clutch scoring down the stretch.

Key Players in the Rivalry

Zion Williamson (New Orleans Pelicans): When healthy, Zion Williamson is a game-changer. His strength, explosiveness, and finishing ability around the rim make him one of the most difficult players to guard in the league. Zion’s presence in the paint forces defenders to collapse on him, opening up opportunities for other players to get involved. However, Zion’s ongoing injury issues have been a concern. The Pelicans’ success hinges on his ability to stay on the court, and when he does, they are a much more dangerous team, especially against the Suns’ defense.

Brandon Ingram (New Orleans Pelicans): Brandon Ingram has developed into a potent offensive weapon for the Pelicans. His smooth scoring ability, particularly from mid-range and beyond the arc, provides a balance to Zion’s inside game. Ingram’s size and length also make him a strong defender, and his all-around game is essential for the Pelicans when Zion is not available.

Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns): As the Suns’ primary scorer, Devin Booker is the engine that drives their offense. He’s a versatile player who can score from anywhere on the floor, and his ability to create his own shot in clutch moments makes him a constant threat. Booker’s leadership is also an important factor in the Suns’ success, as he provides stability on both ends of the floor.

Kevin Durant (Phoenix Suns): Kevin Durant, one of the most dominant players in the league, adds an elite level of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking to the Suns’ already talented roster. Durant’s ability to score from anywhere on the floor, coupled with his length and defense, makes him a key matchup for any team, including the Pelicans. When Durant is firing on all cylinders, the Suns are a near-impossible team to stop.

Deandre Ayton (Phoenix Suns): Deandre Ayton provides the Suns with a reliable presence in the paint. A strong rebounder and interior defender, Ayton’s size and athleticism make him a key player when facing a team like the Pelicans, who rely on their inside game. His ability to protect the rim and contribute offensively will be important in stopping Zion Williamson and other Pelicans players from dominating the paint.

Pelicans’ Playstyle

The Pelicans, under head coach Willie Green, emphasize an up-tempo game that relies on pushing the ball in transition. When Zion Williamson is playing at full strength, the Pelicans are a fast-break team, looking to capitalize on his athleticism and the playmaking of Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum. Defensively, the Pelicans focus on creating turnovers and getting out in transition. Their defense has been inconsistent, but when they are locked in, they are a solid team that can disrupt opposing offenses with their length and athleticism.

Suns’ Playstyle

The Suns, on the other hand, are known for their methodical approach. Led by Chris Paul (until his trade in the 2023 offseason) and now Devin Booker, they run a balanced offense that incorporates both isolation and ball movement. They are excellent in the half-court offense, where they can use Durant’s scoring ability and Ayton’s presence in the paint to generate high-efficiency looks.

Defensively, the Suns rely on their ability to switch and rotate, utilizing players like Mikal Bridges (who was traded to Brooklyn but was a key defensive piece in earlier matchups) and Ayton to protect the rim. The team is particularly effective at limiting perimeter shooting, making them a tough matchup for the Pelicans’ shooters.

FAQs

Are the Pelicans and Suns likely to meet in the playoffs soon?

With both teams in the Western Conference and improving year by year, it is highly possible that they could face off again in future playoffs. The Suns’ veteran core combined with the Pelicans’ rising stars means they are both likely contenders for postseason spots, setting the stage for more thrilling playoff encounters.

How does the Pelicans’ young roster compare to the Suns’ experience?

The Pelicans boast a youthful and dynamic roster with players like Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and Trey Murphy III leading the charge. In contrast, the Suns have a more experienced lineup with established stars like Devin Booker, Chris Paul (when active), and Deandre Ayton. The matchup of youth vs experience makes their games particularly exciting and unpredictable.

Who has the better team, the Pelicans or the Suns?

This question has been asked frequently, and the answer depends on the current state of both teams. The Suns have had more success in recent years, including their trip to the Finals in 2021. However, the Pelicans, with their young talent, especially Zion Williamson, have a higher ceiling and could be the more dangerous team in the long run if their roster stays healthy.

How do the Pelicans match up against the Suns?

When both teams are at full strength, the Pelicans have the advantage in terms of size and athleticism, especially in the paint. However, the Suns’ depth, experience, and the scoring ability of Booker and Durant make them a tough matchup. It often comes down to whether Zion Williamson can stay healthy and dominate the paint.

What are the playoff chances for the Pelicans vs Suns?

Both teams have playoff aspirations, with the Suns currently being in a slightly more secure position due to their experience. However, the Pelicans have a high ceiling, and if their young stars develop and stay healthy, they could very well be a contender in the future. Playoff chances for both teams will depend on their performances during the regular season and how they manage key injuries.

In Summary

The Pelicans vs Suns matchup is one of the most exciting young rivalries in the NBA today. With both teams brimming with talent and potential, their games are always must-watch affairs. While the Suns currently have the edge in terms of experience and success, the Pelicans’ bright future, led by Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, makes them a team to watch closely.

As both teams continue to develop and grow, their rivalry will undoubtedly become even more intense and impactful in the NBA playoff picture. Whether it’s through fast breaks, elite scoring, or fierce defense, the Pelicans and Suns are sure to provide plenty of entertainment and drama in the years to come.

To read more, Click Here .