Los Angeles Clippers vs New Orleans Pelicans — Preview & Prediction (Mar. 01, 2026)
Game preview
The Clippers host the Pelicans in what should be a lively Western Conference matchup. Los Angeles sits in the play‑in zone and has struggled for rhythm lately, while New Orleans has shown flashes of life but remains well outside playoff contention.
Los Angeles has hit a rough patch, dropping three straight games after earlier stabilizing under coach Tyronn Lue. Roster changes — including the departures of James Harden and Ivica Zubac — have altered the look of the team and they’ve struggled to find consistent form. Recent defeats to the Lakers, Magic and Timberwolves have exposed defensive lapses; the loss to Minnesota was an odd, low‑scoring affair where the Clippers rallied in the third but couldn’t close it out. Derrick Jones led the team in that game with 18 points.
The Pelicans have been uneven all season but showed a strong stretch recently, winning four straight, including back‑to‑back victories over Utah. Those wins featured a tough defensive effort and a big second quarter that put the game out of reach. Saddiq Bey has been a key contributor during the run, finishing with 24 points, five rebounds and six assists in the latest road win.
These teams already met once this season, a tight contest that ended 126‑124 in favor of the Clippers. Expect another competitive game, though the home court and overall depth tilt toward Los Angeles.
Injuries and prediction
There are several availability questions heading into the game. Reports list Bradley Beal and Darius Garland as out for the home side, while John Collins and Sean Padulla are questionable. For New Orleans, Zion Williamson, Dejounte Murray and Trey Murphy are listed as questionable. Check final team reports before tip‑off.
Bottom line: the Pelicans come in with better recent form, but the Clippers still have the stronger roster and home‑court edge. Expect Los Angeles to play with urgency and to win by a comfortable margin. Tip‑off: Sunday, 9:00 p.m. EST, March 1, 2026.
Prediction: Los Angeles Clippers to win and cover (around -8.5).
