New Orleans Pelicans (17-48) vs LA Clippers (35-29)
Game Info: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at 8:00 pm (Smoothie King Center)
Betting Odds: New Orleans Pelicans +7 -- Over/Under: 222.5 Click Here for the Latest Odds
Where to Watch: KTLA
The New Orleans Pelicans (17-48) will host the Los Angeles Clippers (35-29) on March 11, 2025, at Smoothie King Center. The Clippers, currently eighth in the Western Conference, are riding a three-game winning streak, while the Pelicans sit 14th in the conference and have struggled all season. Los Angeles has had trouble covering the spread, going 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games after allowing 100 or more points, while also being 1-4 ATS in their last five Tuesday matchups.
Meanwhile, the Pelicans have gone 4-1 ATS in their last five home games but have struggled as heavy favorites, going 1-4 ATS when favored by 11 points or more. In head-to-head matchups, the Clippers have historically struggled against the spread, covering just 18 times in their last 63 meetings with the Pelicans. Additionally, the under has hit in four of the last five matchups between these teams. A key factor in this game could be the availability of Zion Williamson, who is listed as questionable due to conditioning concerns. Given the Clippers’ recent form and the Pelicans’ ongoing struggles, Los Angeles enters the matchup as the favorite, though Williamson’s potential return could provide New Orleans with a much-needed boost.
Ivica Zubac Over 12.5 Rebounds
Ivica Zubac has been a dominant force on the boards for the Los Angeles Clippers during the 2024-25 NBA season. Playing in 64 games and averaging 29.8 minutes per contest, Zubac has been a key contributor to the team’s rebounding efforts. He is averaging 11.7 total rebounds per game, with 3.2 coming on the offensive end and 8.5 on the defensive end, totaling 749 rebounds for the season so far. His ability to secure second-chance opportunities and anchor the defense has been crucial to the Clippers' success this season. Zubac is coming off back-to-back games where he secured 14 rebounds. He has another favorable matchup in this one going against the Pelicans that give up the 2nd most rebounds per game to opposing teams.
James Harden Over 24.5 Points
James Harden has been a pivotal contributor to the Los Angeles Clippers during the 2024-25 NBA season. Over 64 games, he has averaged 21.5 points, 8.0 assists, and 6.0 rebounds per game. A highlight of his season came on March 6, 2025, when he scored a season-high 50 points, leading the Clippers to a 123-115 victory over the Detroit Pistons. Harden's consistent performance earned him a spot as a reserve in the 2025 NBA All-Star Game. His scoring ability and playmaking skills have been instrumental in the Clippers' competitive standing this season. Ever since Norman Powell was sidelined due to injury, Harden has been looking like his old self from a scoring perspective. He’s gotten over his point total in the Clippers' last 3 games and has another good opportunity going against this poor defensive Clippers team.
Jose Alvarado Over 4.5 Assists
José Alvarado has been a key playmaker for the New Orleans Pelicans during the 2024-25 NBA season. Over 40 games, he has averaged 4.5 assists per game, totaling 178 assists for the season. Alvarado's assist-to-turnover ratio stands at an impressive 4.28, reflecting his efficiency in ball distribution. Alvarado is coming off two massive games facilitating the ball. In his last game, he logged 11 assists against the Memphis Grizzlies. This Pelicans team lacks play makers, and guys like Alvarado have had to step up to create opportunities for this Pelicans team.
Brad’s Pick See Above
AUTHOR: Brad Francis
