In what will be the only preseason game in front of the Pelican faithful at the Smoothie King Center, New Orleans (3-0) was able to remain undefeated on the exhibition schedule, beating the Utah Jazz (1-2) for a 128-127 victory.
Without Jrue Holiday, who sat due to a left quad contusion, the Pelicans started a lineup featuring Lonzo Ball, Josh Hart, Brandon Ingram, Zion Williamson and Derrick Favors. Jahlil Okafor and E’Twaun Moore also sat out the contest due to coaching decisions, giving the numerous fresh faces and rookies a golden opportunity to shine.