As the calendar flips to 2026, NBA fans will be treated to a crisp New Year’s Day showdown: the Chicago Bulls travel to New Orleans to face the Pelicans in a game tipped for 01:00 (local time). After a rocky start to the season for the Pelicans and a rebuilding Bulls squad trying to gain traction, this matchup carries significant intrigue — not just for playoff hopefuls, but for anyone invested in how both franchises will navigate the long haul ahead.
With histories tangled and rosters evolving, this game offers a fascinating look at youth vs. experience, rebuilding vs. resurgence, and the kind of unpredictability that makes the NBA compelling.
Roster Watch: Who’s Expected to Take the Floor
New Orleans Pelicans
The Pelicans remain centered around forward Zion Williamson, whose explosive athleticism and ability to draw double teams inside make him a constant threat. Despite injury setbacks across the roster, Zion is expected to start and shoulder much of the offensive burden.
In supporting roles, look for forward/wing Trey Murphy III — a proven floor-spacing threat — and veteran big-men such as Kevon Looney and DeAndre Jordan, both recently added to bolster front-court depth and rebounding.
With recent injury news wiping out guard Jordan Poole and perimeter-defender Herbert Jones, the Pelicans may lean more heavily on their bigs and wings for scoring and defensive rotations.
Chicago Bulls
The Bulls come into the game as a young, developing roster — one trying to find identity and consistency. Key names expected to take part include guard/forward Josh Giddey, whose playmaking and all-around contributions have been a bright spot, and guard Coby White, representing some of Chicago’s backcourt firepower.
One wildcard: injuries and team depth. Chicago has dealt with key absences and slowly working players back into form — which could open the door for younger or role players to make an impact if they step up.
Key Matchups & What to Watch
Inside Battle: Pelicans’ Bigs vs Bulls’ Youth
New Orleans’ front-court physicality and size — especially with Looney and Jordan — could be a major weapon against the youthful Bulls lineup. If the Pelicans control the boards and limit second-chance opportunities, Chicago will struggle to keep pace.
On the flip side, if Giddey and White can push tempo and get the Pelicans into a faster rhythm, Chicago could exploit mismatches and draw fouls on larger defenders — particularly in transition or pick-and-roll situations.
Perimeter Shooting & Floor Spacing
With Poole and Jones likely out, spacing could become a challenge for New Orleans. That puts more pressure on Trey Murphy III, Zion’s mid-range/inside game, and any shooters hit from deep. For Chicago, quick ball movement and outside shooting — combined with Giddey’s playmaking — might open up opportunities and disrupt Pelicans’ defensive schemes.
Mental Edge & Motivation
The Pelicans enter the New Year working to regain consistency and climb out of a rough start. Playing at home on New Year’s could provide a spark, especially with fan support behind them.
Meanwhile, the Bulls — still a rebuilding team — might approach the game with less pressure and more freedom. That sense of nothing-to-lose can sometimes lead to surprising upsets, especially if youthful energy and hustle set the tone.
Predictions & What Could Unfold
- Pelicans have a slight edge — With Zion leading, front-court strength intact, and home-court support, New Orleans is favored. If their big men dominate inside and bench contributes, they’re in good shape to close it out.
- Upset potential for Bulls — If Giddey orchestrates well and Chicago hits shots, particularly from the perimeter, they could steal a win — especially if Pelicans’ supporting cast remains thin or misfires.
- Key player bets: Zion Williamson (NOP), Trey Murphy III (NOP), Josh Giddey (CHI), Coby White (CHI) — their performances could swing the game either way.
- X-factor: Role players and bench impact. Depth and energy could tilt momentum in a close game — especially if either team can ignite a run through hustle, transition, or second-chance points.
What This Game Means for the Season
For the Pelicans, a win here helps stabilize confidence, shows resilience amid adversity, and can build chemistry. It may be an early step in climbing standings and shaping a post-All Star push.
For the Bulls, a win would signal that their young core can compete win over experienced teams — an important morale booster for a rebuilding franchise. Even a competitive loss might hint at potential and development.
And for fans, this game offers a microcosm of two paths: a rebuilding squad striving for identity, and a retooling roster working to reclaim relevance. It’s a reminder that even early-season games in January can set tone and shape expectations.
Final Thoughts
When the Bulls and Pelicans tip off on January 1, 2026, expect a mix of energy, unpredictability, and gritty basketball. With front-court clashes, pace-driven offences, and contrasting motivations, this game has all the ingredients for a memorable matchup.
Whether you’re backing the physical dominance of New Orleans or betting on youthful fire from Chicago — this game deserves a spot on your New Year’s Day watchlist.
