New Orleans Pelicans vs. LA Clippers 2/7/24 – As the NBA season heats into the post-All-Star game frenzy, a compelling matchup is on the horizon with the New Orleans Pelicans (28-21) visiting the LA Clippers (32-15) on Wednesday. This game not only pits two of the Western Conference’s formidable teams against each other but also brings into focus the potential for winning NBA picks today, given their current standings and performance trends.This game is a crucial pivot for both teams as they jockey for playoff positioning.
| When: | Wednesday, February 7, 2024 at 10:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Crypto.com Arena |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8 THREE'S for B.I.! pic.twitter.com/X4LnOaY04h
— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) February 6, 2024
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pelicans | +6.5 -110 | o233.5 -110 | +210 |  |
| Clippers | -6.5 -110 | u233.5 -110 | -256 | |
| ||||
Zion Williamson (PF) vs. Kawhi Leonard (SF)
Zion Williamson is averaging a robust 30.4 minutes, 22.3 points, 5.5 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game. He gobbles up 1.7 offensive boards and adds another 3.8 defensive rebounds as well. Zion shoots the ball efficiently inside the arc but has room for improvement from deep. While not a premier defender with just 0.9 steals and 0.4 blocks, Zion impacts the game tremendously with his combination of size, explosiveness and skill around the rim. He does commit his share of turnovers at 2.6 per contest.
Kawhi Leonard continues his excellence in his 43 starts for the Clippers this season, playing 34.3 minutes a night. He averages 24.1 points on efficient shooting splits along with 6.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.7 steals per game. Kawhi patrols passing lanes and disrupts offenses exceptionally well while also rebounding at a strong rate, especially defensively with 5.1 per game. His defense sets him apart from one dimensional scorers. Though not an elite playmaker, he protects the basketball well, committing just 1.5 turnovers and maintaining an excellent 2.4 assist to turnover ratio. Durability is always a question mark for Kawhi after missing all of last season.
This battle features Zion’s dominant inside scoring and rebounding against Kawhi’s more well-rounded contributions on both ends. Zion is an irresistible force but Kawhi has the defensive skills to make life difficult for him around the basket. Both players have plenty of ways to exploit weaker defenders as elite scorers as well. This individual matchup could very well determine who comes out on top in what projects to be a tightly contested game between playoff contenders.
Pelicans’ Precision Play: A Statistical Overview
The Pelicans have been an offensive powerhouse this season, scoring 116.4 points per game with a 48.7% field goal percentage and 37.7% 3-point shooting accuracy per game – accounting for 12 made shots from beyond the arc per contest. Their distribution skills (268 assists per game) highlight their team-oriented scoring responsibilities; yet their defensive rebounding (33.5 per game) and blocks (4.7 per game) must also remain excellent against an equally proficient Clippers squad in terms of scoring ability.
Clippers’ Cohesive Command: Breaking Down the Stats
The Clippers have outscored most opponents with 118.5 points per game, narrowly outscoring the Pelicans. Their shooting accuracy (49.6% from field and 39.4% from 3-point range) illustrates an efficient offense while on defense they average 8.1 steals and 5.4 blocks per game which helps disrupt opponents’ plays. It will likely come down to which team can assert its style more successfully with the Clippers hoping to utilize their slight edge in offensive efficiency and defensive versatility as an edge over New Orleans.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
The betting odds for this game are yet to be determined, reflecting the closely matched nature of these two teams. Bettors will want to keep an eye on the spread, moneyline, and total points as they become available, considering both teams’ recent performance trends and head-to-head matchups.
Trends
New Orleans Pelicans Betting Trends
Pelicans are 2-3 in their last 5 games.
New Orleans Pelicans are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Pelicans are 13-11 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 1 of Pelicans’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 11 of Pelicans’ 24 last games at home.
LA Clippers Betting Trends
Clippers are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
LA Clippers are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Clippers are 12-12 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 1 of Clippers’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 10 of Clippers’ 23 last games at home.
Injuries
New Orleans Pelicans
No reported injuries
LA Clippers
Ivica Zubac C Is “?” Wednesday vs New Orleans, Calf
Moussa Diabate PF Is out indefinitely, Hand
New Orleans Pelicans vs. LA Clippers Betting Picks
Considering the statistical analysis and betting trends, this game promises to be a tightly contested affair. While the Clippers hold a slight edge in recent form and overall team efficiency, the Pelicans possess the talent to upset, making this a difficult pick. For those looking to wager, focusing on the performance of key players like Williamson and Leonard could be crucial, with prop bets on their points and rebounds offering value.
Given the trends, the safer bet might lean towards the under on total points, anticipating a defensive struggle. However, bettors should also consider live betting options, as the flow of the game could offer insights into which team is likely to pull away. For those looking to place bets, top-tier online casino sites will offer a range of options to capitalize on this exciting matchup. Sign up today to make your NBA betting prediction!
Score Prediction: Clippers 112, Pelicans 108.
