On Tuesday, March 11, 2025, the LA Clippers are set to take on the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center, with the game marking the turning point for both teams at this stage of the NBA season. With LA at 35-29 and New Orleans at 17-48, the matchup has serious postseason ramifications.
The Clippers are coming off their third consecutive win, having beaten the Sacramento Kings 111-110 in overtime on Sunday, March 9. James Harden was stellar, putting up 29 points, 11 assists, and five rebounds, leading the team to victory as they continue to chase the seventh seed behind the Timberwolves. After the game, head coach Tyronn Lue left due to back pain, temporarily handing the reins to assistant coach Brian Shaw, who faced pivotal decisions down the stretch.
Shaw, recognizing Kawhi Leonard's recent shooting struggles, still trusted him to take the last shot, which he drilled after receiving the ball from Harden. Leonard finished the contest with 17 points, shooting 7 of 19 from the field. With their recent success, the Clippers are favored by 7 points against the Pelicans, showing oddsmakers believe they have momentum on their side.
Meanwhile, the Pelicans, though struggling with injuries, are not to be overlooked. They recently fell to the Memphis Grizzlies by just three points, with Trey Murphy III leading their scoring with 27. Despite the loss, New Orleans is confident, especially considering their past matchups against LA, where they have historically performed well. The Pelicans have won 11 of their last 12 games against the Clippers, cementing their reputation as potential spoilers.
Health has been a concern for both teams. The Clippers will be without Norman Powell due to hamstring issues and Ben Simmons managing knee problems. Drew Eubanks is questionable with hip soreness. The Pelicans similarly face challenges, with Kelly Olynyk rested, Brandon Boston Jr. sidelined by ankle issues, and CJ McCollum also out for rest. Most critically, Herbert Jones and Dejounte Murray are both out for the remainder of the season with shoulder and leg injuries, respectively.
Starting the game for the Pelicans is CJ McCollum, Bruce Brown, Trey Murphy III, Zion Williamson, and Yves Missi. This recent lineup change seems to reflect head coach Willie Green’s assessment of the team’s performance and potential. The Clippers counter with Harden, Kris Dunn, Leonard, Nicolas Batum, and Ivica Zubac.
Leonard's performance will be pivotal, and the fact he is not listed on the injury report signals he will be present to help guide the Clippers as they continue their push for improved playoff seeding. Both teams enter the game with motives: the Clippers aiming for another postseason opportunity, and the Pelicans hoping to gain some respect as they fight off four consecutive losses.
Tip-off for the game is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET. Fans can watch the game live or stream it via Fubo, which provides access to all the latest NBA action. Given the importance of this matchup for playoff positions, every possession, every shot, and every strategic move from coaches could determine the outcome.
For the Clippers, their defensive strength has been part of their success, ranking fourth in points allowed per game. New Orleans, struggling on both ends of the floor, has allowed the second-highest field goal percentage and the most three-pointers, indicating the strategic advantage LA may have if they capitalize on such defensive lapses.
The stage is set for what could be another thrilling encounter between these two teams, each with something to prove. Both are aware of each other’s capabilities, and with the stakes this high, one question looms large: can the Pelicans pull off another surprise against the Clippers, or will LA cement their winning streak and drive forward toward playoff contention? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the energy at Smoothie King Center is bound to be electric on March 11.