PREVIEW: The Portland Trail Blazers arrive in New Orleans ranked first in offensive rebounding and forcing turnovers, showcasing a defensive intensity that creates chaos on the perimeter. However, the visitors struggle significantly with three-point accuracy and efficiency attacking the rim, ranking 30th in both categories. The Pelicans counter with solid offensive rebounding but face severe defensive liabilities, allowing high-quality three-pointers and rim attacks while ranking dead last in passing efficiency with heavy isolation dependence. Portland enters this matchup having won five of their last ten games, showcasing competitive depth and the ability to transition quickly from defense to offense. New Orleans continues to struggle both offensively and defensively, managing just two wins over their last five contests while displaying inconsistent form. The Pelicans' defensive scheme leaves them vulnerable to the exact strengths Portland possesses, as New Orleans ranks 30th in defending the three-point line and 28th against attacks at the rim. The Pelicans fell to 2-8 after dropping two straight games, while the Trail Blazers sit at 5-5 despite narrow recent defeats. Portland enters as an 8.5-point favorite in a matchup that should provide insight into whether the Blazers can capitalize on their structural advantages against a depleted Pelicans roster.