The New Orleans Pelicans have touched down in Shanghai, China, to participate in the NBA Global Games against the Houston Rockets. This international trip offers a fresh start as the team handles a challenging stretch, including a 132-126 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on April 13, 2026.
These preseason contests in Shanghai are a major platform for the NBA's global growth. For the Pelicans, it's a chance to connect with a massive international fanbase and test their systems in a unique environment. The team's arrival, captured in a series of travel photos, shows players preparing for the long flight and the upcoming challenge. Facing the Rockets provides a high-profile opponent to gauge early-season readiness.
Executing offensive sets and defensive rotations against a Western Conference rival like Houston will be valuable. Every minute on the court in China counts toward building chemistry for the long NBA season ahead.
The Pelicans' journey east follows a tough run of results. Their recent form over the last five games stands at one win and four losses (LLWLL). They have dropped their last two contests, including that high-scoring defeat in Minnesota where they conceded 132 points.
Before that, they fell 144-118 to the Boston Celtics on April 10. Their sole recent victory was a 156-137 offensive explosion against the Utah Jazz on April 8. Close losses to the Orlando Magic (112-108) and the Sacramento Kings (117-113) in early April highlight the fine margins they are dealing with. A 118-106 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers on April 3 started this difficult sequence.
Improving perimeter defense and three-point shooting will likely be priorities. Coaches will be looking for stronger pick-and-roll coverage and more consistent effort on closing out shooters.
Offensively, generating easier looks in the paint and capitalizing on fast-break opportunities can spark their attack. Player rotations and managing minutes for key contributors will also be under scrutiny during these global games. The experience of traveling and playing abroad can strengthen team bonds, which is an intangible benefit.
Upon returning from Shanghai, the focus will immediately shift to the regular season grind. The data from these global games will inform final roster decisions and strategic adjustments. The coaching staff, led by Head Coach Willie Green, will have concrete film to review with players.
Integrating any lessons learned from facing the Rockets will be essential for turning their form around. The Pelicans have the talent to compete, but translating that into consistent wins is the next step. Building positive habits in China could provide a foundation for a stronger performance when the games start counting in the standings.
