Pelicans vs. Warriors NBA Odds, Prediction and Picks: Golden State Chases Eighth Straight Win
The Warriors enter Monday’s meeting with New Orleans on a seven-game winning streak, while the Pelicans arrive after a 139-123 loss to the Clippers. Golden State has climbed to 7-3 after a 0-3 start; New Orleans is 4-6 following a four-game winning run that has already given way to consecutive defeats.
The Warriors are 5-1 at home, while the Pelicans are 1-3 on the road and playing the second night of a back-to-back.
Pelicans vs. Warriors NBA Betting Odds
Money Line: Pelicans (+312) vs. Warriors (-395)
Point Spread: Pelicans +9.5 (-110) vs. Warriors -9.5 (-110)
Point Total (Over/Under:) Over 232.5 (-105) / Under 232.5 (-115)
Golden State is 7-3 against the spread and has covered in seven of its last eight games. New Orleans is 6-4 ATS, with the Over hitting in seven of its 10 games. The Warriors average 118.6 points and allow 113.6, while the Pelicans score 120.5 but concede 120.8 per game. Both teams play at a brisk pace and rank among the league’s better teams at getting to the free-throw line, giving this total plenty of routes to clear 232.5.
New Orleans ranks fourth in pace and seventh in opponent three-point percentage, allowing 32.3%, but its foul rate is a concern: the Pelicans rank 26th in free-throw prevention. Both sides also surrender transition opportunities, which can inflate scoring.
New Orleans Pelicans
Thankfully, for Pelicans fans and all organization stakeholders, Zion Williamson has been available for all 10 games, averaging 21 points while shooting 63% from the field. He went 9-for-9 for 25 points against the Clippers, with Trey Murphy III adding 26 and Jeremiah Fears contributing 25 points, six rebounds and five assists.
New Orleans’ issue remains defensive consistency: it allows 120.8 points per game and is 23rd in defensive rating. The Pelicans also have a difficult turnaround after playing in Los Angeles last night.
There could be a big positive, though. Yves Missi, an energetic, efficient and productive spark plug in the frontcourt, who has been out since Game 2, could return tonight.
Golden State Warriors
Stephen Curry is averaging 31.3 points per game and just scored 41 in Saturday’s overtime win over Orlando. Rookie Yaxel Lendeborg added 23 and has emerged as Curry’s reliable running mate, averaging more than 20 points on better than a ridiculous 60% true shooting.
Golden State ranks first in three-point percentage at 39.5% and sixth in offensive rating. The Warriors have managed their seven-game streak despite missing Jimmy Butler, Moses Moody and Kristaps Porzingis. Will Richard is also out, while Gui Santos is a game-time decision.
NBA Prediction: Who Will Win Pelicans vs. Warriors?
The Warriors have the clear edge in recent play, home-court advantage and perimeter shooting. They make far more three-pointers than New Orleans and face a Pelicans defence that has struggled to contain opponents.
Golden State has the clear edge in recent play, home-court advantage and perimeter shooting. They make far more three-pointers than New Orleans and face a Pelicans defence that has struggled to contain opponents.
Still, the stronger angle is the total. New Orleans allows 120.8 points per game, both teams generate free throws, and the Pelicans’ tired legs could make their defensive task harder. Curry and Lendeborg’s confidence is soaring, playing some of the best two-man ball in the NBA right now.
Expect Golden State to win, but back the Over in a high-scoring game on Monday night.
Best Bet: Over 232.5 (-110)
NO
GS