Clippers vs Pelicans Picks, Prediction Today | Friday, March 15

Here's everything you need to know about Clippers vs. Pelicans on Friday, Mar. 15 — our expert prediction and betting picks for today's game.

Tonight's Western Conference showdown in the NBA between the Los Angeles Clippers and the New Orleans Pelicans is set to captivate basketball fans and bettors alike. With both teams showcasing their distinct prowess throughout the season, this matchup promises not only high-octane basketball action but also significant playoff intrigue.

Let's get to my Clippers vs Pelicans pick and prediction.

The Clippers have been an offensive juggernaut this season, boasting the fourth best offensive rating in the league. Their efficiency is not just a byproduct of sharpshooting (fifth in eFG%) but also disciplined play, maintaining a solid position in turnover percentage (14th) and free throw rate (seventh). This is due to their elite talent and star-power depth led by Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, James Harden, and Russell Westbrook.

Such offensive firepower is complemented by a respectable defense, ranked 14th in defensive rating. While they excel in limiting opponents' effective field goal percentage (10th), their challenges in securing defensive rebounds (23rd) and a middling performance in forcing turnovers (20th) expose vulnerabilities that aggressive teams could exploit.

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The Pelicans, on the other hand, have shown a balanced attack. With a 10-ranked offensive rating, their performance has been robust, backed by an 11th-place standing in effective field goal percentage and a commendable ninth in offensive rebounding. This rebounding prowess provides them additional scoring opportunities, a crucial advantage in this matchup considering Los Angeles’ rebounding flaws on both ends.

Defensively, New Orleans shines brighter, holding the sixth spot in defensive rating. Their ability to disrupt plays (seventh in turnover percentage) and a strong defensive rebounding presence (ninth) form a formidable barrier against high-scoring offenses.

New Orleans has carved out a reputation for defensive tenacity combined with efficient scoring. Their defense, notably stronger in eFG% allowed (seventh) than the Clippers, suggests they're well-equipped to handle Los Angeles' offensive threats – especially without Russell Westbrook and likely without James Harden as well.

Additionally, their balanced scoring and rebounding effort on the offensive side position them as a team that can both create and capitalize on scoring opportunities.

The Clippers' offensive strength is undeniable. However, their relatively weaker defensive rebounding could be a critical factor against a Pelican team that thrives on second-chance points. The Clippers' reliance on their shooting prowess and free-throw efficiency will need to adjust shorthanded to counteract the Pelicans' strengths, particularly on the boards.

Considering the variables, taking the Pelicans -7 emerges as the best betting choice.

New Orleans' defensive capabilities, coupled with their rebounding advantage, are likely to pressure the Clippers throughout the game. The Pelicans' ability to disrupt the Clippers' offense while creating additional scoring opportunities for themselves through offensive rebounds positions them favorably to cover the spread.

Additionally, the season series between these two teams has seen the road team dominate and cover every game this year. But I am expecting the tides to turn for the home team tonight.

With the Clippers on the back end of a back-to-back, take the Pelicans -7 at Caesars and enjoy a double-digit victory by New Orleans.

Pick: Pelicans -7 (-110)

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