Preview: Pelicans at Hawks, Wednesday, January 7, 2026 ATLANTA (Interstat) — The struggling New Orleans Pelicans, owners of the NBA’s worst record, face an Atlanta Hawks team seeking stability when the two meet Wednesday night at State Farm Arena. The Pelicans (8-29) enter on a five-game losing skid, most recently a 125-106 defeat in Miami on Sunday. Forward Trey Murphy has been a consistent bright spot, averaging 21.8 points and 6.2 rebounds over his last 10 games. He scored 27 points with eight rebounds and five assists against the Heat. Atlanta (17-21) has lost three of its last four, including a 118-100 road loss to Toronto on Monday. The Hawks have been led by forward Onyeka Okongwu, who is coming off a 17-point, 12-rebound performance and has posted six double-doubles in his last 10 contests. The Hawks won the season’s first meeting, 115-98 in New Orleans on Nov. 22. According to National Statistical’s ELO system, Atlanta is projected with an 80.9% probability to win the rematch. New Orleans’s challenges are compounded by a defense allowing 122.1 points per game during its current losing streak. The Pelicans will need more support for Murphy, with recent contributions from rookie guard Jeremiah Fears (21 points vs. Miami) and center Derik Queen. Atlanta’s offense, averaging 122.8 points over its last five, will test that defense. Beyond Okongwu, forwards Jalen Johnson and rookie Zaccharie Risacher have provided key production. The game begins a critical three-game homestand for the Hawks before a daunting six-game road trip. The Pelicans continue a four-game road swing, visiting Washington on Friday. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. EST.