The New Orleans Pelicans are set to face the Golden State Warriors in a 2024 NBA Cup game as part of the ongoing in-season tournament this Friday. The matchup will take place at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, with tip-off scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET.
Currently, the Pelicans hold a record of 4-12 overall and 3-5 at home, whereas the Warriors boast an impressive 11-3 record, including 6-2 on the road. The Warriors have enjoyed success in their group play, entering the game with a 2-0 record in West Group C, while the Pelicans are at 1-1 in the tournament. This game will mark the third encounter of the season between these two teams, with the Warriors having won both previous matchups by at least 15 points.
In terms of betting odds, the Warriors are favored by 10.5 points, with an over/under set at 221.5 points. The Warriors have shown to be a profitable team this season, with a solid 10-4 record against the spread (ATS), including a 6-2 performance on the road. Noteworthy players include Stephen Curry, who averages 23 points per game, and Andrew Wiggins, who recently scored 27 points in a victory against the Hawks.
On the other hand, the Pelicans are facing challenges, with a 1-5 record over their last six games. They have struggled against playoff-caliber teams during this stretch. However, a potential bright spot is rookie Antonio Reeves, who exploded for 34 points in his last game, showcasing possible depth for New Orleans in this challenging period. The status of key players, such as Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum, remains uncertain, adding to the intrigue of this matchup.
As the teams prepare for this exciting clash, fans can look forward to high-stakes basketball that may reveal the Pelicans’ resilience or further cement the Warriors’ dominance in the league.
This matchup not only highlights the competitive spirit of the in-season tournament but also underscores the importance of emerging players like Reeves for teams dealing with injuries. Regardless of the outcome, the game presents an opportunity for growth and strategic adjustments for both teams.
Overall, the Pelicans may feel challenged, but they also have the chance to turn their luck around in front of their home crowd.