2024 New Orleans Pelicans Playoffs Picture after loss vs Phoenix Suns (April 1): Updated standings, schedule and more

The Phoenix Suns proved to be the superior team against the New Orleans Pelicans as they defeated them 124-111 at the Smoothie King Center on Monday. With this victory, the Suns now hold a record of 45-30, slightly surpassing the Dallas Mavericks who currently hold the fifth seed.

Despite not affecting New Orleans’ seeding, the loss does bring the Suns closer to potentially securing the sixth seed and avoiding the play-in tournament. In the current scenario, Phoenix would be among the teams participating in the play-in, along with the Sacramento Kings, LA Lakers, and Golden State Warriors.

The Pelicans had maintained a position in the top five for the past two months, until they were surpassed by the Mavericks.

Despite Zion Williamson (30 points and five assists) and Trey Murphy III (21 points and six rebounds) leading the way for New Orleans, the team’s efforts were not sufficient to defeat the Suns. Veteran CJ McCollum also contributed, adding 15 points, five rebounds, and nine assists.

In a dominant performance, Devin Booker lit up the Pelicans with an impressive 52-point outburst, along with three rebounds and nine assists. Kevin Durant also contributed 20 points, helping the Suns to secure the win and move closer to the sixth seed.

Current Playoff Standings for the New Orleans Pelicans

Despite this loss, the Pelicans’ record drops to 45-30. Their home record is now 21-16 and they are currently on a two-game losing streak. In their last 10 games, they hold a 6-4 record and are tied with Dallas for number of wins. However, if the Suns were to win their next game and extend their winning streak to two, they would have the opportunity to surpass the Pelicans.

New Orleans has seven remaining games to secure a sixth seed instead of risking a play-in spot.

New Orleans Pelicans Playoff Push: Remaining Games

The New Orleans Pelicans have two remaining home games before embarking on a four-game road trip. On April 3, they will face the Orlando Magic, followed by a game against the San Antonio Spurs on April 5. After that, they will head out West for a rematch against the Suns.

The team will face off against the Portland Trail Blazers, Sacramento Kings, and Golden State Warriors before their last match at home against the LA Lakers.

In their remaining slate of games, New Orleans will face off against all four teams in the play-in category. It remains to be seen if they can maintain their sixth seed.