Pelicans and Spurs Clash Again Amid Season Woes

NEW ORLEANS, La. — The New Orleans Pelicans (14-43) will square off against the San Antonio Spurs (24-31) on Tuesday, February 25, as both teams seek to rebound from disappointing seasons. The game, set to tip off at 8 p.m. ET at Smoothie King Center, marks their third encounter this season with both teams currently locked at one win apiece.

The Pelicans entered this matchup following an 18-point victory over the Spurs on Sunday, which was their second win in three games. However, they have struggled significantly since late January, amassing a record of just 2-11. Despite having star player Zion Williamson in the lineup, the team seems destined to miss the Play-in tournament.

“We’ll see how the offseason shapes up, but perhaps it’s time to rethink our strategy moving forward,” said Pelicans coach Willie Green on Monday. The team is expected to start CJ McCollum at point guard, flanked by Trey Murphy III and Williamson, with Kelly Olynyk and Yves Missi rounding out the lineup.

In contrast, the Spurs are currently in a state of flux, particularly with the season-ending injury to rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama due to a blood clot. This absence has impacted their performance, leaving them vulnerable as they look for answers in their rotations.

Following their recent loss to the Pelicans, the Spurs struggled to find consistency, with lead guard De'Aaron Fox only managing 13 points and shooting a dismal 18.8% from the field in that game.

“We need to adjust,” Spurs coach Mitch Johnson said. “Our focus is now on building chemistry for the next season.” San Antonio’s expected starting lineup will feature Chris Paul, Fox, Devin Vassell, Harrison Barnes, and Bismack Biyombo, as they aim to regain momentum.

The last game between these teams produced only 210 points total, nightmarish shooting performances from both sides left fans wondering how offense would translate into this rematch. Yet some analysts predict higher scoring, estimating that the total might exceed 225 points, but likely remain under 236 points.

In player prop betting, many are eyeing Williamson to score at least 27 points, as he’s averaged 26.1 points per game this month. Murphy III is also expected to assist at least six times, demonstrating his ascent as a playmaker. Meanwhile, De’Aaron Fox is anticipated to bounce back and score over 25 points after a lackluster performance in their last meeting.

With injuries plaguing both rosters, the game serves as a crucial opportunity for both teams to establish a sense of urgency and victory heading into the offseason. As the Pelicans and Spurs look to salvage their seasons, this matchup promises to deliver intensity and drama.

The game will be broadcast locally on GCSEN, WVUE, and the FanDuel Sports Network – Southwest, with options for streaming via FuboTV or NBA League Pass.