Kings Aim to Break 12-Game Losing Streak Against Pelicans in High-Stakes NBA Battle
On February 9, 2026, the Sacramento Kings, with a record of 12-42, will travel to the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana, to take on the New Orleans Pelicans, who stand at 14-40. This game marks a crucial opportunity for the Kings to snap their daunting 12-game losing streak, adding intense pressure to an already significant NBA regular-season contest.
Betting Odds and Game Details
In the betting markets, the New Orleans Pelicans have emerged as a 7.5-point favorite over the Sacramento Kings. The over/under for total points scored in this matchup is set at 231.5. On the moneyline, Sacramento is listed at +240 to secure an upset victory, while New Orleans is heavily favored at -300 to win outright. These odds reflect the Pelicans' home-court advantage and the Kings' recent struggles, making this a pivotal game for both teams' seasons.
When and Where to Watch
Tonight's NBA clash between the New Orleans Pelicans and Sacramento Kings is scheduled to tip off at 8:00 p.m. ET at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. For fans eager to catch the action, Gulf Coast Sports will provide live coverage. Additionally, the game will be broadcast on NBCSCA and GCSEN for television viewers. Streaming options include Fubo and Prime Videos, ensuring accessibility for audiences watching from home or on the go.
Expected Starting Lineups
New Orleans Pelicans:
- PG: Trey Murphy III
- SG: Herbert Jones
- SF: Saddiq Bey
- PF: Zion Williamson
- C: Derik Queen
Sacramento Kings:
- PG: Russell Westbrook
- PG: Devin Carter
- SG: Nique Clifford
- PF: DeMar DeRozan
- C: Domantas Sabonis
Injury Report
New Orleans Pelicans:
- Dejounte Murray - Out (Achilles injury)
Sacramento Kings:
- Doug McDermott - Day-to-day (Right shoulder soreness)
- Domantas Sabonis - Day-to-day (Unspecified issue)
- Zach LaVine - Out (Finger injury)
- Malik Monk - Out (Illness)
- De'Andre Hunter - Out (Eye injury)
- Keegan Murray - Out (Ankle injury)
Game Prediction and Key Insights
Over their last 15 games, the Sacramento Kings have established themselves as the seventh-most effective three-point shooting team in the NBA, a statistic that could play a vital role in their offensive strategy. This strength aligns with a favorable matchup, as opposing starting point guards have averaged 7.5 three-pointers per game against the New Orleans Pelicans this season when playing on the road.
Furthermore, the Pelicans, leveraging their home-court advantage, have operated at the fifth-fastest pace of play in the NBA over the past 20 games. This uptempo style may benefit the Kings by increasing the number of possessions and scoring opportunities. Additionally, opposing starting point guards have found it relatively easy to draw fouls against the Pelicans, attempting an average of 4.1 free throws per game this season, which could be a key factor in close moments.
With both teams prepared and eager to compete, this game promises to be a compelling NBA showdown, filled with strategic nuances and high-energy play as the Kings fight to end their losing streak and the Pelicans look to capitalize on their home advantage.
