New Orleans Pelicans vs Los Angeles Clippers: Injury Report and Game Preview for March 1, 2026

New Orleans Pelicans vs Los Angeles Clippers: Injury Report and Game Preview for March 1, 2026

The New Orleans Pelicans are set to travel to face the Los Angeles Clippers on March 1, 2026, in a Western Conference game that holds significant importance for both franchises. With both teams navigating uneven seasons and positioned outside the top tier in the standings, this contest is more about maintaining playoff relevance than making a definitive statement. The outcome could hinge on how each squad manages key player absences and leverages their available talent over four intense quarters.

Injury Report and Player Availability for March 1, 2026

Player availability is a central focus heading into this matchup, as injuries threaten to disrupt rotations, scoring efficiency, and late-game execution. For the New Orleans Pelicans, star forward Zion Williamson is listed as questionable due to a right ankle sprain sustained in their recent victory over the Jazz. His potential absence would remove a critical interior scoring threat. Additionally, center Yves Missi is questionable with a calf issue, while forward Trey Murphy III has been ruled out with a shoulder injury, and guard Dejounte Murray remains sidelined during his recovery process. These setbacks leave the Pelicans short-handed on both offensive and defensive fronts.

In contrast, the Los Angeles Clippers receive a boost with the availability of forward Kawhi Leonard, who has been dealing with an ankle issue. His return enhances the team's capabilities on both ends of the court. Leonard is expected to play alongside center Ivica Zubac, providing Los Angeles with a steady and experienced presence in the frontcourt that could prove advantageous.

Confirmed Rosters for Both Teams

The New Orleans Pelicans continue to rely on a blend of youthful energy and established contributors. Key players include Zion Williamson (PF), Jordan Poole (SG), Jeremiah Fears (PG), Trey Murphy III (SF), Yves Missi (C), Saddiq Bey (SF), Herb Jones (SF), and Derik Queen (C). This roster reflects strategic moves made during the 2025–26 season, with no former Pelicans players included.

The Los Angeles Clippers feature a more veteran-laden group led by Kawhi Leonard (F), James Harden (G), Ivica Zubac (C), John Collins (F), Kris Dunn (PG), Brook Lopez (C), Derrick Jones (SF), and Nicolas Batum (F-G). Their experience and cohesion could be pivotal in this high-stakes encounter.

Head-to-Head Record and Team Performance Snapshot

Historically, the Pelicans hold the edge in this matchup, having won 44 of the 79 regular-season meetings, while the Clippers have secured 35 victories. Recent games have been closely contested, though limited data from the current season obscures a clear pattern. A snapshot of team performance reveals:

• New Orleans Pelicans: Record of 19-42 (.311), averaging approximately 105 points per game (PPG) while allowing around 110 PPG. They post 43.9 rebounds per game (RPG) and 25.2 assists per game (APG), with shooting percentages of 47% from the field and 34% from three-point range. Their road record stands at 8-21, highlighting struggles away from home.
• Los Angeles Clippers: Estimated record of 27-31, averaging 112.3 PPG and conceding 114.0 PPG. They manage 40.8 RPG and 23.5 APG, with shooting efficiencies of 48% from the field and 36% from beyond the arc. The Clippers have relied on their home defense to remain competitive throughout the season.

Key Contributors This Season

For the Pelicans, Zion Williamson leads the charge, averaging between 19.9 and 21.7 points per game, along with 6.1 rebounds and 3.6 assists. Jordan Poole adds approximately 17 points per contest, while Jeremiah Fears contributes an average of 13.3 points per game.

The Clippers are spearheaded by James Harden, who averages between 21.8 and 25.8 points with 9.2 assists per game. Kawhi Leonard provides 23.8 points and 6.0 rebounds, and Ivica Zubac chips in with 15.2 points and 8.6 rebounds, forming a formidable trio.

Game Outlook and What to Expect

If Zion Williamson is able to play, the interior battle becomes more balanced, with his aggressive style potentially countering Kawhi Leonard's controlled approach. However, if Williamson is sidelined, the Clippers gain a clear edge in terms of structure, experience, and roster stability. New Orleans will need multiple players to step up offensively to keep pace, while Los Angeles aims to capitalize on their cohesive lineup and home-court advantage. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 PM ET at the Clippers' arena in Los Angeles, setting the stage for a compelling NBA showdown.