In the last game between these two teams, Gentry played Chandler straight up with Asik, and since Chandler was winning that battle in general, switched it up and went small.  The result was Chandler having to defend on the perimeter, several fouls, and Chandler only getting 16 minutes.  It will be interesting to see how quickly Gentry goes to that strategy tonight.

On the injury front, Bledsoe was out versus the Spurs and the Suns fell apart without him, turning the ball over 28 times.  There has been no update yet if he’s playing against the Pelicans.  On the flip side, there is a possibility Tyreke Evans could open his season tonight in Phoenix, though he’s listed as Doubtful so it may be Saturday when he makes his debut.

Should either thing happen – Bledsoe out, Evans in – that should be a help to the Pelicans who really need to win this one with a back to back involving the Clippers and the tough Jazz homecourt coming up.

Keys to the Game:

• Be ready to fight for it again.  PJ Tucker, Markieff Morris, Bledsoe, and Chandler all like to get physical and aggressive.  The Pelicans fought hard last game, and will have to put that effort out there again to win.  If they shy away, they lose.
• Continue to lay off PJ Tucker on the perimeter.  Last game he shot well from deep as the Pels decided to let him be the one open guy on the perimeter.  Don’t let that change your gameplan.  He’s not a great shooter.  Let him try to be the one that kills you.
• Go right at Morris.  He can’t resist reaching and fouling people.  If a guard finds themselves matched up against him, take it to him.

Enjoy the game!