**Southwest Notes: Pelicans, Rockets, & More**

ZAGO 𝕸𝖊𝖉𝖎𝖆

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Post on Oct 27, 2024

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Southwest Notes: Pelicans, Rockets, & More

The Southwest Division is heating up as the season reaches its climax. With playoff spots on the line and teams battling for positioning, every game matters. Let's take a look at some of the key storylines emerging from the division.

Pelicans Soaring High

The New Orleans Pelicans have been one of the biggest surprises in the league this season. Led by the dynamic duo of Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, the Pelicans are a force to be reckoned with. Their high-flying offense and improved defense have propelled them into the playoff picture, and they look poised to make a deep run.

Key Takeaways:

• Zion Williamson's dominance: He continues to be a force in the paint, averaging over 26 points and 7 rebounds per game.
• CJ McCollum's impact: His veteran leadership and scoring ability have been crucial for the Pelicans' success.
• Defensive improvements: The Pelicans have made significant strides on the defensive end, ranking 12th in the league in defensive rating.

Rockets Rebuilding, But Showing Promise

The Houston Rockets are in the midst of a rebuild, but they are showing signs of progress. With a young core led by Jalen Green and Jabari Smith Jr., the Rockets are developing a strong foundation for the future.

Key Takeaways:

• Jalen Green's growth: He has taken a leap this season, showcasing his explosive scoring and athleticism.
• Jabari Smith Jr.'s potential: The young forward has shown flashes of brilliance, demonstrating a smooth shooting stroke and strong defensive instincts.
• Coaching change: The arrival of Ime Udoka brings a new dynamic and a focus on defense, which could be a game-changer for the Rockets.

Other Southwest Notes

• Dallas Mavericks: The Mavs remain a strong contender, but their reliance on Luka Doncic can sometimes be a double-edged sword. They'll need to find ways to create more offensive threats to truly contend in the playoffs.
• Memphis Grizzlies: The Grizzlies are still a dominant force in the West, led by the electric Ja Morant. They'll look to build on their regular season success and make a deep playoff run.
• San Antonio Spurs: The Spurs are in a rebuilding phase, but they have some promising young players like Keldon Johnson and Jeremy Sochan. They are a team to watch in the future.

Looking Ahead

The Southwest Division is shaping up to be a thrilling race to the finish line. With each team vying for a playoff spot, we can expect a high level of competition and exciting matchups in the coming weeks.

Keep an eye on:

• Pelicans vs. Mavericks: This rivalry is always intense, and with both teams vying for playoff positioning, these games will be must-watch.
• Rockets vs. Grizzlies: The young Rockets will be looking to make a statement against the seasoned Grizzlies, and these matchups could provide valuable experience for their young core.
• The playoff picture: The race for playoff spots is tight, and every game will be crucial for these teams.

This Southwest Division is a microcosm of the NBA as a whole. It offers a mix of young talent, established stars, and teams in various stages of development. With the playoffs approaching, the battle for supremacy in the Southwest is just beginning.