Davis Returns as Pelicans Play the Magic

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Published: October 21, 2015

The New Orleans Pelicans play the Orlando Magic tonight at 6pm CT (UTC -5). The game is in Orlando at the majestic Amway Center, is not being televised, and is available locally on the radio network, 99.5 FM in New Orleans, or the Pelicans app.

Nothing new to report on the injury front that is new and bad. Gordon is no longer listed as questionable, Jrue’s minutes restriction is easing slightly, and Davis is back into the rotation after resting against the Rockets. Tonight’s starters should be Holiday, Gordon, Cunningham, Davis, and Perkins. The only thing that can be considered bad is a possible clarification of Evans’ timetable to return, which is 6 weeks, give or take 2 weeks. It’s not all season, so that’s neutral to good.

The Magic are without Payton, but should start Oladipo, Fournier, Harris, Watson, and Vucevic. With the exception of the newly added Watson, this lineup consists of guys who played heavy minutes together for Orlando.

With Davis’ return, look for Anderson’s rebounding to come down some, but Davis should give Anderson good space when they are on the floor together, unless Anderson is on the center, which happens. Speaking of, the Magic’s big men include Jason Smith and Greg Stiemsma.

Gordon seems healthy, so his performance against Orlando is something to watch. Orlando is kind of a weird team with respect to their guards, at least in my opinion, so it may be a good game to see a number of different kinds of matchups for him.

Jrue’s play has been nice. I don’t expect each game to be better than the first, but I’d like to see a steady effort and energy . . . and no signs of soreness.

The Pelicans host the Heat Friday in New Orleans, and then the regular season slams down. Enjoy these (mostly) carefree games while you can.

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