The Pelicans host the Memphis Grizzlies tonight in the Smoothie King Center, tip off is for 6CT. Both teams are coming into the second of a back-to-back, tho Memphis won their game against the Lakers while the Pels fell last night to Boston.  The Pelicans remain a game back from the playoffs while Memphis sits pretty comfortably in the 2nd seed in the West.

New Orleans has lost 2 out of their last 3 after a 5 game win streak, and will need to avoid any losing skid to keep up pace with Oklahoma city and Phoenix, who are all within a game and a half of the 8th spot in the West. They’ve split the season series so far 1-1 with the Grizzlies.

Some Keys for the Pels tonight:

• Protect the Ball – The Pelicans have had 18 and 14 turnovers the last two games, resulting in 37 points against. They have also given up 42 fast break points the last two games off those turnovers and some poor shot selection. The Pels will need to play a lot more disciplined basketball if they hope to beat a veteran Grizzlies team that boasts one of the best defenses over the last couple of years
• No Droughts – Scoring droughts have plagued New Orleans of late, and it has put them in holes that they can’t always dig out of. Against a very capable Memphis defense, the Pels can’t just settle for one pass, pick n roll possessions.
• Anthony Davis – In 2 games since coming back from injury Davis has put up incredible stat lines, but the offense doesn’t seem nearly as crisp as it did during the 5 game win streak while Davis was out. N.O. hasn’t broken 100 in four games. It is good to see Davis come back so ready and dominant but the team needs to adjust to his return, particularly the point guards.

Tip off is for 6 CT enjoy the games!

And don’t forget, BBS’s watch party Tuesday night at Tracey’s on Magazine Street.  Come out to watch the Pelicans beat up on the Nets with some good company, good food, and good drink.