Poll closes on Wednesday, Jan 31 @ 5pm CST.
PELICANS v. TRAILBLAZERS (Home Court Advantage: Pelicans)
Key Players:
Pelicans - Damien Lillard, Blake Griffin, Brandon Jennings.
Trailblazers - Derrick Rose, CJ McCullom, Kenneth Faried.
Team Strengths:
Pelicans - Guard play featuring Jennings and Lillard. Blake Griffin's dominance in the paint. Great perimeter defenders (#1 defensive ranking against 3p% in the league - reg season). Making the most of each shot (#2 in league in PPS - reg season). Attempting 2nd most FTAs a game. Top 5 OEFF.
Trailblazers - Guard play featuring McCullom and Rose. Deep big rotation featuring Davis, Faried, and Bogut (#1 rebounding team in the league - reg season). 3pt shooting (#4 in the league - reg season). Plenty of roster depth.
Team Weaknesses:
Pelicans - Depth after starting 5 is lacking. Attack paint early and often (no shot blockers).
Trailblazers - Cohesion. Raw talent at the 3 (especially if Tatum is starting). Not good at forcing teams to turn the ball over.
SEASON SERIES:
Trailblazers 2-1 over Pelicans