New Orleans Pelicans vs. Los Angeles Clippers Prediction, NBA Odds
The Clippers had a chance to clinch the seventh seed and face Memphis in the first round of the playoffs, but they fell 109-104 against Minnesota on Tuesday. The Pelicans are still alive following a 113-103 win over San Antonio on Wednesday.
Los Angeles is a 3.5-point favourite to win on the NBA odds, with a total of 216.0.
Pelicans vs. Clippers NBA Betting Odds
New Orleans came out on top in three of four regular season meetings this year, but L.A. took the last game 119-100 at home on April 3. The total has gone Under in four of the last five head-to-heads between these teams.
The Pelicans squeaked into the play-in tournament with a losing record both at home, 20-22, and on the road, 17-24. They were 41-40-1 against the spread this season, but have failed to cover in five of their last six games against teams with a winning straight up record. The total has gone Under in seven of New Orleans’ last eight games following a SU win.
Los Angeles was a healthy 25-16 at home this season, compared to just 17-25 on the road. They’re an even 41-41 ATS overall and have covered in their last six games against teams with a losing SU record. The Over is 3-0-2 in the Clippers’ last five games following a SU loss.
New Orleans Pelicans
CJ McCollum kicked things off early for New Orleans on Wednesday, scoring 27 of his game-high 32 points in the first half. McCollum, who also added six rebounds and seven assists, made 10 of his first 12 shots, including two of three from long range despite consistent double teams. Brandon Ingram added 27 points, while Jonas Valanciunas had 22 points and 14 rebounds.
With former first overall pick Zion Williamson not expected to play at all this year due to a foot injury, McCollum has led the offence for this team since being acquired from Portland in February. McCollum averages team-highs in points (24.3) and assists (5.8).
Los Angeles Clippers
The Clippers will get a second crack at clinching a playoff spot after Tuesday’s loss in Minnesota. Paul George finished with a game-high 34 points and seven rebounds after shooting just 2 for 10 in the first half. Reggie Jackson had 17 points and seven boards, while Norman Powell added 16 points.
Los Angeles has benefitted from the return of George and Powell, who both missed significant time with injuries this year. Injuries have been a theme for this team as Kawhi Leonard has missed the full year after tearing his ACL in the second round of the playoffs last year. George is averaging a team-high 24.3 ppg, while Powell is second with 21.4 ppg. Luke Kennard is listed as questionable on Friday after leaving the regular season finale with a hamstring injury and not suiting up in the first play-in game. Kennard is the team’s fifth-leading scorer, averaging 11.9 ppg.
NO
LAC