New Orleans continues to exercise caution with Tyreke Evans (right knee tendinitis), electing to have the guard sit out Monday vs. Memphis instead of being on the floor and risking potential further injury. Alvin Gentry said Evans is not expected to play. Meanwhile, a player who gave the Pelicans big-time problems in his most recent trip to the Crescent City is a game-time decision for the Grizzlies.
Memphis Coach Dave Joerger told the media during his pregame interview that 7-foot-1 center Marc Gasol, who piled up 38 points against the Pelicans on Dec. 1, probably will play tonight, but called it “a game-time decision.” The past Western Conference All-Star is a formidable scorer, rebounder and passer, above average in every category.
Other pregame notes from the Smoothie King Center:
Gentry on Evans’ status: “We’re just trying to be cautious with it. If it was the playoffs, he’d probably play. We’re just trying to be smart with that and give him as much rest as needed. He would play through a whole lot of stuff. In this case, it makes more sense right now (to sit).” …
Gentry on what Evans brings to the table: “You have that big body that’s always going downhill and can get (the ball) just about anywhere he wants it in the paint. You miss the size that he has and things like that. But I think other guys have really stepped up. Norris (Cole) has played great as a starter; Toney (Douglas) has been great off the bench. That’s when you know you’ve got a pretty good team, when you have guys who can step in and do that. We’ll just have to evaluate every day and see where (Evans) is.” …
New Orleans has been nearly perfect on its homestand so far, with the lone defeat coming 112-111 to Houston, but the Pelicans are still 3.5 games out of eighth due to Portland playing well recently. Gentry called Monday’s game another key contest for his team: “It’s been a good homestand. We really need to have this game tonight. It’s a team we’re chasing. It becomes really important for us. It’s a game at home, and we expect to win all the games at home.”
