NBA Showdown: Nets Face Pelicans in Critical Matchup
The 2025-2026 NBA season kicked off in October 2025. Teams have been competing in alternating games since then. Tonight features a pivotal clash between the Brooklyn Nets and the New Orleans Pelicans. The game starts at 8 pm Eastern Time.
So far this season, the Nets have secured 11 victories out of 37 games. They lean heavily on the talents of Michael Porter Jr. and Nic Claxton. Meanwhile, the Pelicans have won 9 games from their 42 played. Their success often depends on players like Trey Murphy III and Zion Williamson.
Here is a complete breakdown of everything you need to know about tonight's encounter.
When and Where to Watch the Game
The New Orleans Pelicans will host the Brooklyn Nets at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.
Television coverage will be exclusive to YES, Gulf Coast Sports, and Pelicans+. For online viewers, Fubo and Prime Video will provide live streaming of the match.
Expected Starting Lineups
New Orleans Pelicans
- Jeremiah Fears (Point Guard)
- Trey Murphy III (Shooting Guard)
- Zion Williamson (Power Forward)
- Derik Queen (Center)
- Jordan Poole (Shooting Guard)
Brooklyn Nets
- Egor Demin (Point Guard)
- Cameron Thomas (Shooting Guard)
- Michael Porter Jr. (Small Forward)
- Noah Clowney (Power Forward)
- Nic Claxton (Center)
Injury Report
New Orleans Pelicans
- Dejounte Murray - OUT (ACL injury)
- Herbert Jones - OUT (ankle injury)
- Jose Alvarado - OUT (oblique injury)
Brooklyn Nets
- E.J. Liddell - QUESTIONABLE (knee issue)
- Ziaire Williams - OUT (illness)
- Haywood Highsmith - OUT (knee injury)
Game Prediction
The Brooklyn Nets have scored over 229.5 points in 12 of their 37 games this season. Key players Ziaire Williams and Haywood Highsmith are injured and will miss tonight's game. However, Michael Porter Jr. remains a strong force, averaging 25.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. Nic Claxton also contributes significantly with averages of 13.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.1 assists.
On the other side, the New Orleans Pelicans have reached 229.5 points in 29 of their 40 matches. Trey Murphy III stands out with impressive averages of 21.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 6.2 rebounds per game. Derik Queen adds solid numbers with 12.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.3 assists.
This matchup promises intense competition as both teams battle for a crucial win.
