- The Pelicans are favored by 3.5 points over the Trail Blazers in Tuesday’s Summer League game at 7:00 PM PT
- Yang Hansen and Derik Queen lead a matchup of young centers with potential similar to Nikola Jokić
- Below are my Trail Blazers vs Pelicans predictions and updated odds for Tuesday’s Summer League game
The “Chinese Jokić” meets another center drawing comparisons to the three-time MVP. Yang Hansen has impressed in two Summer League games with his exceptional passing, while Derik Queen has recorded consecutive double-doubles for New Orleans.
The teams are at different ends of the Summer League spectrum. Portland defeated Golden State 106-73 before losing to Memphis; the Pelicans have lost close games despite Queen’s strong performances.
Trail Blazers vs Pelicans Picks
The Pelicans struggle with self-discipline. They committed 25 turnovers in their first game and lead the tournament in fouls. That spells disaster against a Portland team excelling in free-throw shooting.
New Orleans has serious issues with ball handling. Seventh overall pick Jeremiah Fears has a poor 1-to-5 assist-to-turnover ratio in two games. The team had just six assists against the Lakers, none in the second half.
Summer League Efficiency Comparison
Portland’s offense thrives with multiple creators. Caleb Love averages 18.0 points and shoots 43.8% from three. Sidy Cissoko adds 14.0 points per game. Both have NBA experience and know how to manage tempo.
The Blazers have outscored opponents by 12 points during Hansen’s minutes despite modest box score stats. His 10.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 4.0 assists don’t reflect his true impact. The rookie center creates easy opportunities with his passing and averages 2.0 blocks per game.
Queen boasts strong numbers – consecutive double-doubles, averaging 12.5 points and 11.5 rebounds. However, he’s fouling heavily, and New Orleans is outscored during his minutes. The team’s discipline issues begin with him.
Antonio Reeves is New Orleans’ most consistent scorer with 15.0 points per game. He scored 20 against the Lakers but can’t shoulder the scoring burden alone. The Pelicans scored just 81 points in that game despite Reeves’ performance.
Trail Blazers vs Pelicans Predictions
Hansen admitted fatigue affected him during Saturday’s back-to-back games. Expect the Chinese center to bounce back after two days of rest. His conditioning should improve as he adapts to the NBA schedule.
The Pelicans’ turnover woes won’t disappear overnight. Ball-dominant guards like Fears rarely excel early in their careers. New Orleans has been outscored by 11 points during his 55 minutes on the floor.
Portland’s experience gives them an edge. James Bouknight averages 13.0 points while vying for an NBA roster spot. Rayan Rupert and Cissoko already have meaningful NBA minutes. New Orleans can’t match this talent beyond Yves Missi.
Free-throw percentages could decide this game. Portland leads Summer League at 89.7% from the line, while New Orleans is at 64.3%. With the Pelicans’ ongoing foul issues, those extra points could be decisive.
Take the Blazers with the points and consider the moneyline. Portland has shown they can dominate Summer League opponents with a 33-point win over Golden State. New Orleans hasn’t reached that level, despite their lottery talent.
Trail Blazers vs Pelicans Odds
The Pelicans started as favorites despite no wins in Vegas. Sharp money has adjusted the line from Portland +4.5 to +3.5, indicating confidence in the Blazers’ chances.
The total is set at 177.5 after both teams struggled offensively in their recent games.
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: SCCGManagement.com