by Rell Wright/Pelican Contributor

In a somewhat tumultuous preseason performance, the New Orleans Pelicans were edged out 110-105 by the Atlanta Hawks, marking their third preseason loss. Despite star player Zion Williamson contributing a notable 16 points and 5 assists, the synergy that fans have come to expect from the main roster was conspicuously missing.

Errant passes and a seeming lack of motivation characterized the team’s display, especially after being significantly challenged in their prior preseason match. The aspiration was to witness a more cohesive and assertive team on the court, but those hopes dwindled as the game progressed.

However, the evening wasn’t entirely bleak for the Pelicans. A silver lining emerged in the form of the young reserves, who injected vigor and competition into the second half of the game. Rookie sensation Jordan Hawkins proved his mettle with a remarkable 17 points, landing 5 of his 11 three-point attempts. Guards Dyson Daniels and Kira Lewis Jr., alongside EJ Liddell and Dereon Seabron, combined efforts to accumulate an impressive 44 points.

However, the evening wasn’t without its setbacks; the Pelicans saw key defenders Herb Jones and Naji Marshall exit with injuries, casting a shadow on their defensive lineup. With their final preseason game against the Orlando Magic looming on Tuesday, the Pelicans must recalibrate and bring their A-game on the road.