The Utah Jazz, currently 10-30, and the New Orleans Pelicans, with a record of 11-32, are set to square off on January 20, 2025, at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. This Western Conference showdown arrives with both teams aiming to improve their standings, as the Jazz have lost two consecutive games, placing them at the bottom of the conference, whereas the Pelicans have bounced back with three successive victories.
The game is scheduled to tip off at 8:00 PM EST, and as the teams prepare for this matchup, there's much at stake. The Jazz have struggled this season, demonstrating particularly poor performance on the road with a 7-15 record. Meanwhile, the Pelicans are slightly more favorable at home, registered at 3-7 over their last ten games.
Recent performances reflect the challenging situations both teams find themselves in. While the Pelicans are coming off two impressive victories, including their latest game against the Jazz where they managed to overcome them decisively with a score of 136-123. "Winning may never get old, but New Orleans sure is getting used to it with its third straight win," reported by NBC Sports.
Interestingly, New Orleans enjoys notable historical success against the Jazz on home turf. According to trends, "The Pelicans have won 5 of their last 7 home games against the Jazz," showcasing their dominance at the Smoothie King Center.
When considering injuries, the lines become blurry. For the Jazz, key players such as Collin Sexton, Johnny Juzang, and Lauri Markkanen will be absent from the contest, which gives Utah cause for concern. The constant naming of players out due to injury has become almost routine for the Jazz this season. Their struggles are exacerbated by the absence of these pivotal names. Markkanen, who has faced back spasms, along with the rest of the sidelined roster, has made things complex for the Jazz as they chase any semblance of success.
For the Pelicans, they too deal with injuries, including the likes of Zion Williamson who is also out. With significant players being questionable leading up to the game, how both teams adjust remains to be seen. Pelicans' Head Coach Willie Green has had to navigate injury reports continuously, but some resilience is shown with players stepping up when others falter. Last time they met, Zal Williamson contributed heavily with 24 points and 14 rebounds, though, unfortunately, he won’t be available to showcase his skills tonight.
The betting odds reflect Pelicans' current form, as they are being favored by 11 points against the Jazz. The latest odds have New Orleans at -310 on the moneyline compared to the Jazz at +250. The collective point total is set at 226 points, with Utah projected to score approximately 111.86 and New Orleans 116.02. This difference reflects the current perceptions surrounding team performances.
Further insights from models and experts indicate recent betting trends as well. "The OVER is 4-1 in the Jazz's last 5 matchups against Western Conference teams," highlights trends worth noting when considering your bets. Many betting experts agree this might be the night for aggressive play considering the standings and recent performances.
Looking at the historical data, the Jazz have had reasonable success against New Orleans, winning 13 of their previous 20 matchups - indicating they are not entirely out of it yet though they enter this game struggling. They have outperformed the Pelicans 6-2 against the spread over their last eight encounters, showing their ability to keep games close even when their forms have fluctuated dramatically.
With all factors considered, this matchup holds significant importance for both teams as they aim to make strides toward the season's second half. Previewing the stakes, one must ponder: Can the Pelicans continue their winning streak or will the Jazz catch the Pelicans off their guard and claim victory? Bet wisely, and stay updated with all the action as it develops.”