The Los Angeles Clippers visit the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday night in an important Western Conference matchup. The game tips off at 8:00 PM ET at the Smoothie King Center. The Clippers are the No. 8 seed with a 35-29 record, while the Pelicans are near the bottom of the standings at 17-48.
Los Angeles is coming off a thrilling 111-110 overtime win over Sacramento, where Kawhi Leonard’s last-second shot secured the win. The Pelicans nearly forced overtime against Memphis on Sunday but fell short in a 107-104 loss despite missing Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum.
Clippers Preview – Harden and Leonard Leading the Way
The Clippers have recovered from a rough post-All-Star break stretch and are now riding a three-game win streak. James Harden had a standout performance in that span, posting 50 points against Detroit and following it with 29 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds against Sacramento. Leonard added 17 points in the win over the Kings, including the game-winning shot.
Ivica Zubac has been a key contributor in the paint, finishing with 22 points and 14 rebounds in the latest victory. Los Angeles has relied heavily on its starters, especially with coach Tyronn Lue missing Sunday’s game due to back issues. Assistant coach Brian Shaw stepped in as the Clippers held on to win in overtime.
The Clippers average 110.8 points per game while shooting 47.1% from the field. Their defense has been solid, ranking 13th in opponent field goal percentage at 44.2%. Strong interior play from Zubac and clutch performances from Leonard and Harden have kept the team competitive.
Pelicans Preview – Rookies Step Up in Loss
The Pelicans have struggled this season but nearly upset Memphis despite being short-handed. With Williamson and McCollum out, rookie Karlo Matkovic recorded a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds. Antonio Reeves and Jordan Hawkins combined for 23 points off the bench.
New Orleans’ scoring leader Zion Williamson averages 24.5 points per game, and CJ McCollum adds 21.4 points. Their absence has created opportunities for younger players to develop. Trey Murphy III stepped up against Memphis with 27 points, hitting 9-of-21 shots.
New Orleans allows 119.1 points per game, ranking 26th in the league in that category. Their defensive struggles have been a big issue this season. However, their improved bench production could help them remain competitive against the Clippers.
Key Matchup – James Harden vs Jose Alvarado
Harden has been the Clippers’ best offensive player in recent games, and his ability to create scoring chances will be crucial. Alvarado is known for his aggressive defense, which could cause issues if he disrupts Harden’s rhythm. With Williamson and McCollum possibly sidelined again, Alvarado will need to produce on both ends.
Betting Prediction
Los Angeles enters as the favorite against a New Orleans team that has struggled for most of the season. The Pelicans have covered the 4Q spread in 32 of their last 53 games (+9.05 units), showing they fight late in games. Meanwhile, the Clippers have hit the 3Q money line in 38 of their last 64 games.
With Harden playing at a high level and Leonard delivering in clutch moments, the Clippers should win and cover. Expect the Clippers to control the pace and for the Pelicans to struggle with their defensive issues.
Pick: Clippers -7 / Under 232.5
