Los Angeles Lakers at New Orleans Pelicans Prediction: Start Time, TV Channel and Injury Report

The Los Angeles Lakers at New Orleans Pelicans prediction takes center stage tonight as both teams enter a key NBA Cup group-stage game. The matchup tips off Friday, November 14, in New Orleans. The Lakers arrive at 8-4, while the Pelicans continue to struggle at 2-9.

This meeting matters for both the standings and the in-season tournament. Los Angeles is trying to rebound after a tough loss to Oklahoma City. New Orleans is dealing with injuries and a growing sense of urgency. The game features major storylines around Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and Zion Williamson’s continued absence.

Latest Updates, Injury Report and Full Game Breakdown

The Lakers enter tonight’s contest with momentum on their side. Los Angeles has won eight of its first twelve games, led by Luka Doncic’s early MVP-level play. He is averaging 34.9 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 8.9 assists in eight appearances. Austin Reaves is also producing the best season of his career with 28.3 points and 8.3 assists per game.

Los Angeles will still be without LeBron James, who continues to recover from a back-related sciatica issue. Gabe Vincent is also out with an ankle injury, and Adou Thiero is listed as questionable. Despite this, the Lakers have maintained top-tier efficiency. They rank third in field goal percentage and fifth in free throw attempts. Their defensive rebounding numbers remain strong as well.

New Orleans faces a tougher road. The Pelicans remain without Zion Williamson, Jordan Poole, and Dejounte Murray. Williamson continues to progress from his hamstring injury, but has not been cleared for full action. Poole is recovering from a quadriceps issue and still has no return timeline. Murray remains out until early next year following Achilles surgery.

Without their stars, New Orleans has struggled to generate offense. They are averaging only 108.8 points per game and remain last in assists. Trey Murphy III has stepped up with 18.5 points per game, while rookies Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen have shown promise. Still, defensive issues persist. The Pelicans rank near the bottom of the league in opponent field goal percentage, three-point defense, and blocks.

Multiple national outlets, including the Associated Press and CNN, have highlighted the Pelicans’ uncertain coaching situation. Reports note increasing pressure on head coach Willie Green as the team continues to fall toward the bottom of the standings. The Lakers, meanwhile, are looking for a clean bounce-back performance after Wednesday’s loss to Oklahoma City.

Based on form, depth, and health, Los Angeles enters as the more stable team. Their stars are in rhythm, and their offense is built on clear structure. New Orleans continues to rely on patchwork scoring, which has not been enough to keep them competitive against strong opponents.

Projected Outcome and What It Means for Both Teams

The Lakers have dominated this matchup in recent years and have won six straight meetings against New Orleans. The Pelicans have covered the spread in only two of their last ten against Los Angeles. Even without LeBron James, the Lakers hold major advantages in creation, spacing, and experience.

A strong showing from Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves is expected. Deandre Ayton’s performance will also be important, especially against an undersized Pelicans frontcourt. Analysts believe this matchup heavily favors Los Angeles due to both offensive chemistry and defensive reliability.

In summary, the Los Angeles Lakers at New Orleans Pelicans prediction leans clearly toward the Lakers. They have the healthier roster, the more efficient offense, and the more consistent identity. New Orleans will need a near-perfect effort to stay competitive in tonight’s game.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What time is the Lakers vs Pelicans game tonight?

The game starts tonight at 7:00 p.m. CT in New Orleans. Coverage begins shortly before tip-off. Broadcast details are available through local and national partners.

Q2: Who is playing for the Lakers tonight?

Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, Marcus Smart, and Deandre Ayton are expected to start. LeBron James and Gabe Vincent remain out. Adou Thiero is questionable.

Q3: Are the Pelicans still missing Zion Williamson?

Yes. Zion Williamson remains out with a hamstring injury. He has resumed limited activity but has no confirmed return date for full games.

Q4: Why is this NBA Cup game important?

Each team plays four group-stage games. Every win affects tournament advancement and potential seeding. The Lakers are trying to remain unbeaten in NBA Cup play.

Q5: How have the Pelicans performed without their stars?

The Pelicans have struggled offensively and defensively. They have lost most games by wide margins and continue to search for consistent scoring options.