Pelicans Seek Redemption Against Clippers Amid Four-Game Skid
The New Orleans Pelicans are in a tough spot right now. into Los Angeles for their first NBA Cup matchup, they’re carrying the heavy weight of an 0–4 start to the season — the only winless team remaining in the Western Conference. For head coach Willie Green and his squad, Friday night’s clash against the LA Clippers isn’t just another regular-season game; it’s a much-needed opportunity to reset the tone of their season and silence the growing doubts.
Now, when you look at this matchup, it’s clear that the Pelicans are entering as underdogs. The Clippers, sitting at 2–2, have shown flashes of the dominant form that earned them a 50–32 record last season. They’re coming off a competitive loss to the Golden State Warriors but remain confident, especially with Kawhi Leonard healthy and Bradley Beal cleared to return after missing two games. That’s a lot of firepower for any opponent to handle, and New Orleans knows it.
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Unfortunately for the Pelicans, injuries have been a persistent problem early in the season. Dejounte Murray, who was expected to be one of the team’s main backcourt anchors, remains sidelined with a right Achilles rupture — a major blow to their offensive rhythm and perimeter defense. Kevon Looney is also doubtful due to a lingering left knee sprain, though there’s some optimism around his progress as he inches closer to making his debut in a New Orleans jersey. In addition, young players Trey Alexander and Hunter Dickinson are unavailable, both currently assigned to the G League on two-way contracts.
Meanwhile, the Clippers’ injury list is relatively mild. They’ll be without Jordan Miller, Yanic Konan Niederhauser, and Kobe Sanders, but their core rotation remains intact. Having Leonard, Paul George, James Harden, and Beal all ready to go gives Los Angeles a major advantage — and the confidence that comes with experience and depth.
For New Orleans, the focus will likely fall on Zion Williamson. His leadership and on-court energy will be crucial if the Pelicans hope to compete with a loaded Clippers lineup. The team desperately needs a morale-boosting win, not only to stop the skid but to reaffirm faith in Green’s leadership amid whispers about his job security.
Tip-off is set for 10:30 p.m. Eastern in Los Angeles, and all eyes will be on how the Pelicans respond. It’s early in the season, but momentum matters — and this game could mark a turning point. Either New Orleans finally breaks through, or their early-season struggles deepen against a confident Clippers squad hungry to climb the standings.
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