Golden State Warriors vs New Orleans Pelicans Prediction: A big game for both squads

The NBA train is steaming at a fiery pace and it will travel even more intensely once the Postseason arrives. The current window is all about sorting out what match-ups will be worked out during both the Play-in and the Playoffs. Thus, the knockout punches have already begun and a losing streak can be fatal for a squad inching toward the Play-in tournament. Keeping that in mind, let us jump into the game between the Golden State Warriors and the New Orleans Pelicans.

The Warriors enter the fray after a disappointing 96:99 loss against the Timberwolves despite a 27 points performance by Stephen Curry. The loss broke a three-game winning streak and it was rather poor decision-making by Golden State. Such has been the case for the squad for all of the season but the instances have been way fewer at home. After winning the title, a 39 wins and 37 losses record is hardly impressive. The Playoffs’ prospects for a deep run look lean even if Golden State manages a top-six spot. Despite having a shooting galore in Curry, Poole, and Thompson but not having Andrew Wiggins has hurt the overall balance, especially on defense.

The Pelicans enter the game after a 124:90 win against the Portland Trail Blazers on the heels of a 29 points performance by Brandon and a 21 rebounds show by Jonas Valanciunas. The Pelicans have up the ante lately and have won five in a row to bolster their Play-in chances. This has been their best window ever since their prime player Zion Williamson got injured and this has ignited hopes of capturing a Play-in spot while having a shot at the top-six playoff spot. Ingram has been on fire lately, scoring around 30 points a game while also setting up his teammates. This has been a tumultuous season yet again due to Zion’s persistent injury troubles.

• Warriors: OUT: Ryan Rollins, Andrew Wiggins, Ty Jerome, Andre Iguodala. PROBABLE: Draymond Green, Jordan Poole;
• Pelicans: OUT: Jose Alvarado, Zion Williamson.

• Expected Leading Scorers: Stephen Curry(30+ Points), Brandon Ingram(28+ Points);
• Expected Leading Rebounders: Jonas Valanciunas (14+ Rebounds), Kevon Looney(10-13 Rebounds);
• Expected Leading Playmakers: Stephen Curry(8-11 Assists), Brandon Ingram(6-9 Assists).

The Warriors have been brilliant at home whereas the Pels have also improved their play. Record-wise these teams are near which is mind-boggling considering the difference in depth. The Pels played last night but it was a cakewalk against the Blazers, however, playing back-to-back away from home requires travel and adjustments which can take a lot of tolls. That’s why I favor the Warriors to win and predict a scoreline of 124:114 in their favor.