Pelicans vs LA Clippers Prediction 20 March 2026
🔊 Can the more formidable Californians avenge their unexpected setback against the Pelicans from the previous encounter? In the upcoming NBA regular season clash, New Orleans will face the Los Angeles Clippers for the second consecutive time. The hosts have long been out of playoff contention, but unlike their fellow cellar dwellers in the Western Conference, they don't seem to be tanking. Instead, they appear to be hitting their stride right now. The Clippers, on the other hand, have suddenly lost momentum and will be eager to end their losing streak at any cost. Let's break down the matchup and offer an insightful prediction.
Head-to-Head
📊 These teams have clashed on the court 52 times, with the visitors holding a slight edge in the rivalry-27 wins to the hosts' 25. Their most recent encounter took place yesterday on New Orleans' home court, where the hosts secured a convincing 124-109 victory.
Head-to-head statistics Pelicans - LA Clippers
New Orleans Pelicans Team Overview
New Orleans, having shed their mental shackles, are showcasing arguably their best basketball since the start of the season, winning four of their last five games. The team has elevated their average scoring to 115.6 points (14th in the league), though their defense remains problematic, allowing 119.6 points per game (25th). However, the Pelicans have never been known for their defensive prowess, typically building their strategy around offense. At this stage, the more crucial aspect is that the current roster has found the right "chemistry," and coach Borrego has identified the core to build around for the next season.
Recently, the team faced the same Clippers and confidently defeated them (124-109). New Orleans dished out an impressive 32 assists and converted 91.4% of their free throws. This was instrumental in their comeback, as they had trailed by 18 points during the game. The franchise currently sits in 12th place in the standings but trails Memphis only on tiebreakers.
Match Results: New Orleans Pelicans
Los Angeles Clippers Team Overview
The Los Angeles Clippers dazzled everyone with their impressive form in February, but recently they've hit a rough patch, dropping their last three games. It might be a psychological factor at play-realizing they can't rise above the eighth spot, they seem to be mentally gearing up for the upcoming play-in battles. Ty Lue's squad continues to struggle with scoring (averaging 113.5 points, ranking 23rd), often relying on their solid defense (conceding 112.7 points, 10th best).
Fans are also concerned about the team's sluggish pace, the third slowest in the league, and their heavy reliance on Kawhi Leonard's standout performances. He excelled in the recent matchup against New Orleans, scoring 25 points, but others like Collins and Garland seemed lackluster. The absence of the injured Mathurin was also felt, making their offense more predictable once again.
Match Results: Los Angeles Clippers
Latest news
New Orleans Pelicans
⛔ The Pelicans have a clean bill of health, with the exception of their long-term injured reserve player, McGowens.
📋 Projected lineup: Bey, Williamson, Murphy, Murray, Jones.
Los Angeles Clippers
⛔ Maturin and Batum are out for the Clippers.
📋 Probable lineup: Leonard, Collins, Dunn, Lopez, Garland.
🏀 Three-Point Shooting
When it comes to long-range shots, New Orleans have been underwhelming, converting just 34.3% of their attempts. However, their defense against three-pointers is relatively solid, allowing only 35.1%.
The Clippers boast a decent three-point accuracy at 36.3%. Their defense against threes, though, is not particularly impressive, with opponents hitting 36.9%.
⭐ Editorial Prediction
We anticipate that the match is likely to be intense and unpredictable right until the final moments. Yes, New Orleans are currently in better form than Los Angeles, but this will only motivate Leonard and his team to seek revenge. Even without Mathurin, the visitors still possess enough quality to defeat an unmotivated opponent. It's unlikely that the Clippers will falter in their playmaking for a second consecutive day. We recommend placing a bet on the visitors' victory.
No comments
Betting Tips: New Orleans Pelicans - Los Angeles Clippers
in last 7 games (NBA).in last 6 games (NBA).in 9 of last 10 away games against New Orleans Pelicans (NBA).in 8 of last 9 New Orleans Pelicans home games against Los Angeles Clippers (NBA).
Other predictions
