The New Orleans Pelicans will attempt to end their four-game losing skid when they take on the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday night. The Pelicans have struggled to find consistency, while the Clippers come into the matchup riding a three-game winning streak. With the regular season winding down, New Orleans is looking for a spark, while Los Angeles continues to battle for playoff positioning.
Recent Struggles for New Orleans
The Pelicans have dropped four straight games during a frustrating stretch that has included some close losses and numerous defensive lapses. They are just 3-8 in games decided by fewer than four points, underscoring their inability to close out tight contests. Their last loss against Memphis saw Trey Murphy III step up with 27 points, but without Zion Williamson, they fell just short.
Despite their struggles, there are reasons for optimism. CJ McCollum is set to return after missing Sunday’s game, and Zion Williamson is expected to be available. When those two are on the floor alongside Murphy, the Pelicans have a trio of 20-point scorers who can keep pace with any team. However, New Orleans has to find a way to tighten up its defense, as it ranks near the bottom of the league in field goal percentage allowed and opponent three-pointers made per game.
Clippers Rolling with Harden Leading the Way
Los Angeles has found its groove on the strength of James Harden’s resurgence. The veteran guard has been unstoppable, averaging 31.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 9.5 assists over his last four games. Since his 50-point explosion against Detroit, Harden has been the driving force behind the Clippers’ winning streak.
Ivica Zubac has also been dominant, setting career highs across the board while stringing together eight consecutive double-doubles. The Clippers have added firepower from Bogdan Bogdanović, who has provided a scoring punch off the bench, averaging 13 points per game while shooting over 42% from deep.
It seems criminal that Kawhi Leonard is an afterthought, but he should also be on the court, giving the Clippers another threat.
Key Matchups to Watch
Zion Williamson versus the Clippers’ frontcourt will be a critical battle. Williamson has been electric when healthy, averaging 24.7 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 5.3 assists in his last 10 games. His ability to attack the rim could pose problems for Los Angeles.
On the other side, New Orleans will have its hands full containing Harden and Leonard. The Clippers’ offense thrives with Leonard on the court, and his two-way play will be a challenge for the Pelicans’ defense, which has struggled to contain efficient scorers.
Can the Pelicans Capitalize on Clippers’ Turnovers?
One area where the Pelicans can gain an edge is by forcing turnovers. They rank among the top teams in both steals and blocks, while the Clippers have been prone to careless mistakes. Harden leads the NBA in turnovers per 100 possessions (6.4), and if New Orleans can capitalize on those opportunities, they might find a way to turn defense into easy offense.
New Orleans also holds a slight edge in rebounding, which could be key in limiting second-chance points for the Clippers. If they can control the glass and get out in transition, they’ll improve their chances of keeping up with Los Angeles’ high-powered attack.
Final Thoughts
The Pelicans desperately need a win, and with McCollum and Williamson both available, they have the firepower to compete. However, they must bring defensive intensity to take advantage of the Clippers’ mistakes. They’ve struggled with that all season long. If (a big “if” indeed) they can contain Harden and Leonard while forcing turnovers, they might snap their losing streak and pick up a much-needed victory at home. Otherwise, Los Angeles will likely continue its winning ways and add to New Orleans’ frustrations.
Most Recent Starting Lineups
| Los Angeles Clippers | New Orleans Pelicans |
| G – James Harden | G – Jose Alvarado |
| G – Kris Dunn | G – Jordan Hawkins |
| F – Kawhi Leonard | F – Trey Murphy |
| F – Nicolas Batum | F – Kelly Olynyk |
| C – Ivica Zubac | C – Yves Missi |
Injuries
Los Angeles Clippers: Norman Powell (hamstring) and Ben Simmons (knee) are OUT.
New Orleans Pelicans: Brandon Boston (left ankle stress reaction), Herb Jones (right shoulder torn rotator cuff), Dejounte Murray (right Achilles rupture), and Kelly Olynyk (rest) are OUT.
Who: New Orleans Pelicans (17-48) vs Los Angeles Clippers (35-29)
Season Series:
- Dec. 30: Clippers def. Pelicans, 116-113
- Mar. 11: Pelicans vs. Clippers
- Apr. 2: Pelicans at Clippers
Series History: The New Orleans Pelicans are 43-33 all-time against the Los Angeles Clippers and have six of eight in the series.
Where: Smoothie King Center
When: Mar. 11, 7:00 PM CST
Where to watch: Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network
Where to listen: WWL Radio 870 AM
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