As the New Orleans Pelicans look to leave the Moda Center victorious again on Tuesday, there’s perhaps a slight sigh of relief aboard. For once, they will not be the team carrying the most pressure.
After a season filled with rumors, injuries, possible jobs on the line and being involved in playoff type basketball for weeks — thanks Western Conference! — NOLA finally has a chance to play a smidge more loosely as their backs are not up against a wall.
That feeling could bring a level of relaxation which could be damning. Or, it could max out the Pelicans’ efforts, no longer riddled with not being able to afford mistakes.