Pelicans vs Clippers Prediction: High-Stakes NBA Cup Opener for Winless New Orleans

The New Orleans Pelicans face the LA Clippers on Friday night. This Emirates NBA Cup West Group B game tips off at 10:30 p.m. ET at the Intuit Dome. The Pelicans are one of just three winless teams remaining this season. The Clippers enter the contest with a 2-2 record.

This game marks the start of the new in-season tournament for both squads. According to ESPN, the Pelicans are seeking their first victory under difficult circumstances. The team’s performance has raised significant concerns early in the year.

Team Form and Key Player Challenges

LA’s season has been inconsistent through four games. They suffered a surprising opening loss to the Utah Jazz. The team then rebounded with consecutive wins over Phoenix and Portland.

Their most recent performance was a 98-79 loss to Golden State. The Clippers shot a dismal 36.6% from the field in that contest. Kawhi Leonard has struggled by his usual standards in two of the four games.

New Orleans’ start has been far more troubling. The team owns the league’s worst offensive rating and fourth-worst defensive rating. They rank last in field goal percentage and three-point shooting.

Statistical Breakdown and Matchup Analysis

The Pelicans’ struggles extend beyond poor shooting luck. They rank near the bottom in rebounds, assists, and blocks. Opponents are scoring efficiently against their defense.

New Orleans allows the second-highest field goal percentage in the restricted area. They also surrender the highest percentage from floater range. Their personnel presents inherent challenges for floor spacing.

The Clippers have been extremely efficient in the paint when they attack. They lead the league in restricted area conversion rate at 80.6%. Center Ivica Zubac has dominated the boards against New Orleans in recent matchups.

LA needs to generate better three-point opportunities. They attempt the sixth-fewest wide-open threes in the league. Their defense has also underperformed relative to last season’s standards.

This Pelicans vs Clippers prediction hinges on New Orleans’ inability to solve its structural problems against a motivated LA team looking to establish consistency.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the point spread for Pelicans vs Clippers?

The LA Clippers are 10.5-point favorites. This significant spread reflects the teams’ contrasting early-season forms.

Why are the Pelicans struggling so much?

New Orleans ranks last in field goal percentage and three-point shooting. They also struggle with rebounding and playmaking according to NBA statistics.

Is Zion Williamson playing against the Clippers?

Yes, Williamson has no injury designation for Friday’s game. He missed Monday’s loss to Boston with a foot issue but is cleared to play.

What was the Clippers’ recent performance?

LA lost 98-79 to Golden State in their last outing. They shot just 36.6% from the field and 18.2% from three-point range.

Which team has the defensive advantage?

The Clippers rank 13th defensively despite early struggles. The Pelicans rank near the bottom defensively while allowing high-percentage shots in the paint.