The New Orleans Pelicans will visit the Los Angeles Lakers at the Crypto.com Arena. The game is set for Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 10:30 PM. Fans can catch the game on SN-LA.
The Pelicans come into this game with a record of 19-43. They are 13th in the Western Conference and 5th in the Southwest Division. The Lakers hold a 36-24 record and are ranked 6th in the Western Conference and 1st in the Pacific Division.
New Orleans Pelicans Team Preview
The New Orleans Pelicans have shown mixed results in their recent games. They lost to the Los Angeles Clippers by 20 points, scoring 117 while allowing 137. Jeremiah Fears led the team with 28 points, shooting 66.7% from the field.
In their previous two games against the Utah Jazz, the Pelicans secured victories by 11 and 10 points. Saddiq Bey played a pivotal role in these wins, scoring 42 points in one game and 24 in the other. Zion Williamson also contributed, though he is currently listed as questionable due to an ankle injury.
Overall, the Pelicans score an average of 115.1 points per game, ranking 18th in the league. They face challenges on defense, allowing 120.4 points per game, which is 27th in the NBA. Trey Murphy III stands out as a top player, averaging 22.0 points per game with a field goal percentage of 47.5%.
Los Angeles Lakers Team Preview
The Los Angeles Lakers recently had a strong win against the Sacramento Kings, scoring 128 points. Luka Dončić led the team with 28 points, contributing significantly with 9 assists. LeBron James and Marcus Smart also played well, adding to the team’s overall success.
Overall, the Lakers have been effective on offense, especially with their shooting. They have the highest field goal percentage in the league at 49.9%. However, their defense could improve, as they allow a field goal percentage of 48.5%, which ranks 26th.
Luka Dončić is a key player for the Lakers, averaging 32.5 points per game. Austin Reaves and LeBron James also provide significant scoring. However, injuries to LeBron and Rui Hachimura could impact the team, as both are uncertain to play in the upcoming games.
Betting Prediction
The Lakers have a strong offense, ranking first in field goal percentage and two-point percentage. They score an average of 115.9 points per game, which is higher than the Pelicans. The Pelicans allow 120.4 points per game, making it likely for the Lakers to cover the spread of -8.5.
The Pelicans’ defense struggles, especially against two-point shots. They allow a high percentage of two-point shots, which plays into the Lakers’ strength. With the Lakers’ efficient scoring, they should have little trouble against the Pelicans’ defense.
On the other side, the Pelicans’ offense might find it hard to keep up. They rank low in effective field goal percentage and three-pointers made. The Lakers’ defense, especially in rebounds, will help limit second chances for the Pelicans.
- Pick: Lakers -8.5
