Warriors vs Pelicans predictions
With Stephen Curry sidelined due to a pelvis bruise, the Golden State Warriors are looking to other stars to step up against the New Orleans Pelicans. All eyes might be on Draymond Green, whose ability to not only score but also facilitate the ball makes him a vital cog in the Warriors’ machine. He might have to lean a bit more heavily into his assist numbers. Meanwhile, Jimmy Butler, donning the Warriors colors, is expected to bring his usual fire, driving to the bucket and being disruptive on defense. Another player to keep an eye on is Jonathan Kuminga—his athleticism and energy can shake things up. Golden State’s roster might be missing Curry's usual flair, but they certainly pack enough punch to keep things interesting.
On the other side of the court, the New Orleans Pelicans are gearing up with their own not-so-secret weapon: Zion Williamson. He’s been a force in the paint, and with 20.5 projected points, don’t be surprised to see him charging through the lanes like a freight train. CJ McCollum, who's no stranger to the spotlight, could also play a pivotal role in crafting scoring opportunities, either for himself or through assists. And what about Yves Missi, running the floor and crashing the boards? With a knack for snagging rebounds, Missi’s presence in the paint might be an X-factor. There’s a sense of unpredictability with the Pelicans' lineup, as younger players step into roles and look to make their mark.
So, who’s likely to take the win at the Smoothie King Center? The Warriors have the upper hand in terms of standings, and even with Curry out, they boast a solid roster with the experience needed to navigate tough matchups. However, don’t count the Pelicans out just yet. Despite their record, they have nothing to lose and could play with a chip on their shoulders, making them potentially dangerous on their home court. It’s anyone’s game, but if I had to pick, my gut leans towards Golden State for their ability to rise to the occasion when challenged, even in adversity. What do you think—will the Warriors maintain their dominance, or can the Pelicans cause an upset?
