What To Expect In Final Cavaliers-Pelicans Matchup

Cleveland looks to split its regular-season series against New Orleans with a victory tonight.

Two nights ago, the Cleveland Cavaliers suffered their second consecutive loss in a 117-111 defeat to the Phoenix Suns.

Tonight, the Wine and Gold will embark on a three-game road trip when they face the New Orleans Pelicans.

Here are four things to expect in the second and final matchup between these two teams this regular season.

1. Mitchell Back On The Floor

According to the NBA’s 7:30 p.m. Injury Report, star Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell is available to play tonight.

The five-time reigning All-Star had missed Cleveland’s last seven games due to a bone bruise in his left knee, for which he received a Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injection.

2. Merrill Making More Shots

Cavaliers guard Sam Merrill is due for a substantial shooting performance.

The 27-year-old has shot just 6-for-35 (17.1%) from three-point range over the Wine and Gold’s last five games. For perspective, he is shooting an efficient 40.5% from beyond the arc overall this season.

Mar 10, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Sam Merrill (5) shoots a three-point basket in the third quarter against the Brooklyn Nets at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse / © David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

3. Williamson Back In the Fold

Pelicans forward Zion Williamson did not play in the last meeting between these two teams back on December 21, which New Orleans won 123-104.

The first overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft is averaging a team-best 22.1 points per game, while also averaging 5.6 rebounds and 5.2 assists per contest.

4. Pelicans Efficient from Deep

Entering tonight’s game, New Orleans is shooting 38.3% from three-point range, which ranks fifth in the NBA.

In their last meeting against Cleveland, the Pelicans shot 15-for-35 (42.9%) from beyond the arc.