Clippers vs Pelicans predictions
The LA Clippers are coming in hot, looking to secure their fourth straight win, and with James Harden running the show, their chances seem promising. Harden's presence on the court is expected to be a game-changer. I foresee him dropping around 25 points while dishing out close to 10 assists, showcasing his playmaking skills. Then there's Kawhi Leonard, known for his tenacity and clutch performance. I’d wager he’ll be good for about 23 points and a handful of rebounds. Let’s not forget Ivica Zubac, who should dominate the boards as he typically does; I can see him grabbing a hefty 16 rebounds, making life tough for the Pelicans in the paint.
Switching lanes to the New Orleans Pelicans, the home team will need to capitalize on their young talent to make a stand. While Trey Murphy III has been putting up impressive numbers, a solid performance around 19 points would be crucial for the Pelicans’ offense. Zion Williamson, who consistently dazzles with his agility and power, is likely to contribute a solid 20 points while leveraging his physicality to snag some rebounds. With Jose Alvarado nursing a hip soreness but still in the mix, he can be expected to offer valuable minutes and facilitate ball movement with a potential 4 assists.
As for the game's outcome, LA Clippers seem to hold the edge in this matchup, especially given their recent form and depth. The absence of Norman Powell due to a hamstring strain is a hurdle, but with their big names such as Harden and Leonard, the Clippers have the firepower to finish strong. The Pelicans will undoubtedly put up a fight, especially being on their home court at the Smoothie King Center, but the Clippers' current momentum makes them favored to bring home the win. What do you think? Could the Pelicans pull off a surprise victory, or will the Clippers continue their winning streak?