Warriors vs Pelicans: High-Stakes NBA Showdown Set for Tuesday
The NBA action heats up this Tuesday, February 24, as the Golden State Warriors travel to Louisiana to battle the New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center. Both teams are coming off significant victories and aim to build momentum in this crucial Western Conference matchup.
Team Form and Season Performance
The Golden State Warriors, currently positioned eighth in the Western Conference with a solid 30-27 record, are riding high after a recent win against a conference rival. Their season has been marked by consistency when favored, securing victories in 23 out of 39 games where they were the favorites, translating to a 59% success rate. This demonstrates their ability to handle pressure and deliver results when expectations are high.
On the other side, the New Orleans Pelicans have shown resilience as underdogs, pulling off an upset in their last game against an Eastern Conference opponent. Throughout the season, they have defied odds by winning 10 out of 49 games where they were considered underdogs, achieving a 20.4% win rate. This underdog spirit makes them a formidable opponent, capable of surprising stronger teams.
Game Details: When and Where to Watch
The highly anticipated clash between the Golden State Warriors and New Orleans Pelicans is scheduled to tip off at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, February 24, at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. For fans eager to catch every moment, NBC Sports Bay Area will provide full television coverage. Additionally, streaming options are available through Fubo and Prime Video, ensuring online viewers can enjoy the game live from anywhere.
Expected Starting Lineups
Golden State Warriors:
- PG: Pat Spencer
- SG: De'Anthony Melton
- SF: Moses Moody
- PF: Gui Santos
- C: Draymond Green
New Orleans Pelicans:
- PG: Dejounte Murray
- SG: Bryce McGowens
- SF: Herbert Jones
- PF: Zion Williamson
- C: Derik Queen
Injury Report: Key Absences and Updates
Golden State Warriors:
- Al Horford - Out (Toe)
- Draymond Green - Day-to-day (Back)
- Kristaps Porzingis - Out (Illness)
- Stephen Curry - Out (Right knee injury; re-evaluation in 10 days)
- Seth Curry - Out (Sciatica)
- L.J. Cryer - Out (Hamstring)
- Jimmy Butler III - Out (Underwent successful surgery)
New Orleans Pelicans:
- Micah Peavy - Out (Toe)
- Yves Missi - Out (Strained left calf)
- Trey Murphy III - Out (Shoulder)
Game Prediction and Statistical Analysis
As the New Orleans Pelicans, with a 16-42 record, host the Golden State Warriors (30-27) on February 24, 2026, the Warriors enter as slender 1.5-point favorites. The over/under for the game is set at 227.5 points, indicating expectations for a high-scoring affair.
Despite this matchup not being among the most popular of the night, Golden State must approach with caution, as a narrow spread suggests a competitive game that could impact their postseason aspirations. Statistically, the Warriors have seen 34 out of 57 games this season exceed the 227.5-point mark, while the Pelicans have surpassed it in 40 of their 58 games. Both teams average 230.4 points per game, which is 2.9 points higher than the game's total, hinting at potential for an offensive showcase.
Fans are eagerly awaiting this clash, which promises to be a thrilling encounter with significant implications for the Western Conference standings. The combination of strategic play, key injuries, and statistical trends sets the stage for an unpredictable and exciting NBA game.
