NBA: 8 most anticipated matchups of the second-half schedule

Notable NBA games to look forward to in the second half of the schedule: May 9, New Orleans Pelicans vs. Charlotte Hornets

This game won’t necessarily have any long-term impact on the postseason, yet it is still a worthwhile game to watch if you’re a general NBA fan who enjoys seeing young talent shine. The New Orleans Pelicans are still reaping the benefits of the Anthony Davis trade with a multitude of first-round picks in their possession for years to come.

On top of that, they also have one of the most highly-anticipated draft picks of all time as their starting forward in All-Star Zion Williamson. While Zion’s narrative and story would usually take center stage of this game, there may be some competition in Charlotte Hornets’ highly acclaimed rookie LaMelo Ball; another top-3 pick with a large accumulation of hype coming into the league.

LaMelo’s immediate success has undermined that of Zion’s who, while also having a sensational season, lost a lot of momentum in the media when he was sidelined the previous year with injuries that stripped him of any shot at winning Rookie of the Year. Zion is by no means a bust, but this year is the year of LaMelo who has already climbed the Hornets depth charts to start and is the current frontrunner for 2021 Rookie of the Year.

The Pelicans have another proven young stud in All-Star Brandon Ingram which may give them the edge over Charlotte. However, neither of these teams is close to being championship contenders. With the could-have-been ROY versus the next coming ROY; these two relatively evenly strengthened teams could give the fans a great story and a greater game.