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[Saba Sports] The New Orleans Pelicans faced a challenging start to the season. Zion Williamson was questionable with an illness, Trey Murphy III was out until November, and Brandon Ingram, Dejounte Murray, Williamson, and Murphy had yet to share the court during a shortened preseason.
Adding to the shake-up, the Pelicans planned to play without a traditional center anchoring the paint.
“I felt free,” Ingram said after the game. “My offense just floats… It’s a great start. I plan to play free every night.”
Ingram, 27, led the way with 33 points, seven rebounds, two assists, two steals, and a block in a 123-111 win, hitting 3-of-5 from beyond the arc—a win for the Pelicans’ shot-selection strategy.
While he admitted his conditioning was a bit off, Ingram was determined to push through. “I found my shots in the rhythm of the offense,” he noted. “I think my conditioning will get better, and I’ll be even more efficient in my play.”
With Williamson on the sidelines, Ingram thrived without a traditional big man clogging the lane. “Closer to the rim, easier shots,” Ingram said.
“I can shoot over smaller defenders or work around bigger ones. Coach Borrego’s been on me about not settling.” The coaching staff has emphasized finishing at the rim and shooting from deep, though Ingram is known for his midrange prowess. He’s learning to balance his strengths with the team’s needs, focusing on taking the right shot at the right time.
“The adjustment for me is knowing when I’m settling or not,” Ingram added. “I’m great in the midrange; it’s about knowing when I’m letting the defense off the hook.” Understanding this balance is key for the Pelicans’ offense to hit its stride.