The Pelicans have lost eight in a row, five by 11 points or more. Their injured list is longer than my wife's grocery list. This marks the Pelicans' third game in four days days and second on consecutive days.

New Orleans' last three losses have been by an average of 23.3 points.

So I don't see the Pelicans being competitive against the Hawks given the situation and their lack of depth due to injuries.

Unlike the Pelicans, the Hawks are healthy and proven. Atlanta upset the Cavaliers twice last week sweeping a home-and-away series. The Hawks got their letdown game out of the way with a 3-point road win against the Hornets two days ago.

Atlanta is a top-10 scoring team. New Orleans is a way below average defensive team. The Hawks are coming on riding their first three-game win streak of the season. I don't see them slipping here against such an outmanned foe.