Date and Time: Tuesday, March 11, 2025, 8:00 PM ET Location: Smoothie King Center, New Orleans, Louisiana TV Channel: League Pass, FDSSC, and Gulf Coast Sports Live Stream: Available on Fubo (Regional restrictions may apply)
Team Overview:
Los Angeles Clippers: The Los Angeles Clippers have had a solid season, currently holding a 35-29 record. They are led by their star player, James Harden, who has been in exceptional form recently, averaging 31.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 9.5 assists over his last four games. Ivica Zubac has also been a key contributor, posting career highs in points (16.0), rebounds (12.5), and assists (2.5) per game1. The Clippers are looking to extend their three-game winning streak as they begin a three-game road trip against the Pelicans.
New Orleans Pelicans: The New Orleans Pelicans have struggled this season, currently holding a 17-48 record. Despite their challenges, they have some standout players who can make an impact on any given night. Zion Williamson has been impressive, averaging 24.7 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game since the start of February. CJ McCollum, who recently returned to action, is another key player for the Pelicans, averaging 21.4 points per game1. The Pelicans will need strong performances from these key players to compete against the Clippers.
Key Matchups:
James Harden vs. CJ McCollum:
This matchup features two dynamic guards who can score and facilitate for their teammates. Harden’s recent form and McCollum’s scoring ability will be crucial for their respective teams.
Ivica Zubac vs. Zion Williamson:
Zubac’s dominance in the paint will be tested against Williamson, who has been a force on both ends of the floor. This battle in the post could be a deciding factor in the game.
Kawhi Leonard vs. Trey Murphy III:
Leonard’s experience and defensive prowess will be on display against Murphy, who has been a consistent scorer for the Pelicans, averaging 19.2 points over the last 10 games.
Team Insights:
Los Angeles Clippers:
The Clippers have been solid on both ends of the floor, averaging 110.0 points per game while allowing 112.1 points per game.
Los Angeles’ depth has been a strength, with contributions from players like Bogdan Bogdanović, who has been a solid pickup for the team, averaging 13.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game.
New Orleans Pelicans:
The Pelicans have struggled defensively, allowing opponents to score 117.0 points per game. They will need to tighten up their defense to have a chance against the Clippers.
Offensively, the Pelicans rely heavily on Williamson and McCollum to generate scoring opportunities. Secondary scoring from players like Trey Murphy III and Yves Missi will be essential.
Injury Report:
Los Angeles Clippers:
SG Norman Powell (OUT – right hamstring strain)
SF Ben Simmons (OUT – left knee injury)
New Orleans Pelicans:
SG Bruce Brown (QUESTIONABLE – conditioning)
SF Brandon Boston Jr. (OUT – left ankle stress reaction)
PG Dejounte Murray (OUT – torn Achilles tendon)
SF Herbert Jones (OUT – torn right shoulder rotator cuff)
Los Angeles Clippers – 6.5
New Orleans Pelicans 224
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, March 10, 2025
