3 Questions to tip-off: New Orleans site expert weighs in on OKC Thunder vs. Pelicans

TIP3 – Site expert offers insight into OKC Thunder preview vs New Orleans Pelicans.

In a new segment entitled TIP3, Thunderous Intentions asks the opposing team expert three questions to get the inside scoop prior to tip-off. Lending his insight for the New Orleans Pelicans contest is site expert Justin Jett of FanSided’s Pelican Debrief.

Pelican Debrief weighs in:

In TI’s inaugural TIP3 column we asked FanSided affiliate Pelican Debrief to share their knowledge  on the New Orleans Pelicans. Our appreciation goes out to site expert Justin Jett for his input. Jett answered specific questions on Rajon Rondo, DeMarcus Cousins’ future and the Pelicans’ defensive issues.

Plus we get Jett’s pick for who wins the game. Without further adieu – welcome to TIP 3:

TI Q1 – The Rondo effect:

Rajon Rondo returned to the lineup and in his limited minutes versus the Raptors seemed to fuel a more cohesive flow among the starters. When he initially exited the game the Pelicans led 22-14. Again, when he returned he had an immediate impact. Rondo didn’t play in the second half which was when the Pelicans lost the game.

In his first game back he played 14 extremely productive minutes (4 points, 8 assists, 2 rebounds, 1 steal).  He was less effective in his second outing Friday – then again the game versus the Nuggets falls under the ‘let’s forget about that one’.

Looking ahead, is Rondo the missing piece of the puzzle for New Orleans? Can his presence push the Pelicans into the playoffs?

Jett on Rondo:

The importance of Rajon Rondo is widely disputed among the Pelicans cognoscenti. Some believe he is the missing piece and others view him as a question mark that is no better for the offense than Jameer Nelson. In his brief moments he has performed admirably.

He still is hesitant to shoot from distance and is not the best defender, but he is setting up his teammates much better than Jrue Holiday has. What has been seen so far is encouraging and all indications are he will be important for them rather than not.

Of note: Jett offers more on Rondo in his article The key ,a cog, or a mirage?

TI Q2 – The ever controversial Cousins :

Controversy and rumors tend to follow DeMarcus Cousins wherever he goes.  Just last week there was speculation once again of a reunion between Cousins and his former Kentucky teammate John Wall.

If the Pelicans fall out of the playoff seeds (currently 7th) , but remain on the periphery of nabbing a postseason berth, do you think New Orleans moves him or are they in it for the long haul?

Jett on Cousins:

Giving away an incredible talent is just slightly worse than losing one for nothing. Whether or not the Pelicans move on may be as simple as their record, however, they would have to be deeply below .500 to make a move.

DeMarcus Cousins and Anthony Davis have proven they work together, it’s the team that surrounds them that is unsatisfactory. I would lean heavily toward the Pelicans keeping him rather than not. The two bigs could be very good with the right supporting cast.

TI Q3 –  Thunder defense versus Pelicans offense – who comes out on top?

New Orleans offense (11th) isn’t the issue, but their 26th defensive rank isn’t ideal. The Thunder have the opposite problem as the OK3 search for offensive chemistry (particular in clutch situations).

Given the Pelican’s offensive prowess and the Thunder’s defensive standing  (2nd) which team has the edge tonight?

Jett on Pelicans’ defense and game prediction:

The Pelicans usually have the size advantage over opposing teams but they won’t against the Thunder. They also don’t have a particularly good option to guard the Thunder’s big three.

The Thunder’s defense will bottle up the offense, put Cousins and Davis in uncomfortable positions, and whichever member of the big three is facing Dante Cunningham will have a big night.

Thunder win, 108 to 103.

Next: Full game day preview: Thunder vs. Pelicans

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