Game Preview: San Antonio Spurs vs. New Orleans Pelicans
The San Antonio Spurs (24-31) and New Orleans Pelicans (14-43) are set to face off at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. The Spurs are currently navigating the challenges of the season without their star player, Victor Wembanyama, who is sidelined due to a blood clot in his shoulder. In the three games since his injury, the Spurs have managed a 1-2 record, demonstrating both resilience and vulnerabilities.
Team Performance and Recent Form
Despite the setback, the Spurs have shown flashes of brilliance, especially on the road, where they hold a 9-17 record. However, their overall road point differential of -2 suggests that they are often engaged in competitive but ultimately tough battles away from home. On the other hand, the Pelicans have been struggling significantly, sitting at the 14th spot in the Western Conference. They have only won 2 of their last 10 games, highlighting their current form and the challenges they face. Notably, the Pelicans have a 5-5 record in their last ten home games, indicating a moderate level of comfort on their home court.
Key Player and Injury Updates
The absence of Victor Wembanyama has opened up opportunities for other Spurs players. One of the biggest beneficiaries has been Keldon Johnson, who has seen a significant increase in his minutes and usage. Johnson has been instrumental in the team’s recent performances, and experts like Brad Thomas from NBC Sports are tipping him to exceed his over/under points bet of 12.5. This trend is a testament to Johnson’s growing role and the Spurs’ adaptability in the face of adversity.
Game Details and How to Watch
For fans eager to catch the action, the game is scheduled for Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 8:00 PM EST. The matchup will take place at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. Various streaming and broadcasting options will be available to ensure you don’t miss a moment of the game. Stay updated with the latest team stats and player news by checking out NBC Sports’ day-by-day NBA schedule page and detailed matchup pages that update live during the game.
Expert Predictions and Best Bets
The latest odds for the game have New Orleans slightly favored, with an implied team point total of 119.08 for the Pelicans and 118.03 for the Spurs. NBC Sports’ Bet Best Bet recommends a play on the New Orleans Pelicans on the Moneyline, indicating confidence in the home team’s ability to secure a win. Additionally, the model is leaning towards a play on the San Antonio Spurs at +2 for the spread, suggesting the Spurs could cover the spread despite the Pelicans’ edge. For the total, the under on the game total of 237 is the projected best bet, based on the teams’ recent performances and defensive capabilities.
Important Stats and Trends
The Spurs have struggled on the road, losing 17 of their 27 games away from home. This trend is crucial to consider when evaluating their chances in New Orleans. On the other hand, the Over has been the dominant trend in the Pelicans’ matchups against Western Conference Southwest Division teams, going 8-3 in these games this season. The Pelicans have also covered the spread in 6 of their last 8 home games, which adds another layer of complexity to the betting scenario. The Spurs, however, have failed to cover in 30 of their 55 games this season, highlighting their inconsistency in this aspect.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
As the Spurs and Pelicans prepare to face each other, the stage is set for a game that could go either way. The Spurs’ ability to adapt without Wembanyama and the Pelicans’ home form will be key factors. Fans and bettors should keep a close eye on the trends and stats, as they provide valuable insights into the potential outcomes. Whether you’re tuning in for a thrilling game or looking for the best bets, the matchup promises to be an exciting one. Stay informed with the latest updates and analysis from NBC Sports and enjoy the action!
