On Friday night, New Orleans will play a second straight game on national television to open its 2019-20 regular season, hosting a potentially key Southwest Division foe, in front of a capacity crowd. In other words, Mavericks-Pelicans will have many of the characteristics of a compelling early-season matchup – except for one. With Zion Williamson (knee) sidelined 6-8 weeks by injury, the No. 1 overall draft pick will not be in uniform, but the Pelicans still anticipate a vibrant atmosphere in the Smoothie King Center.
“I understand the Zion situation, with him not being able to run out there and start the first game,” fifth-year head coach Alvin Gentry said.