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Golden State Warriors vs New Orleans Pelicans Betting Preview
The Golden State Warriors host the New Orleans Pelicans at Chase Center in Saturday NBA Cup action. Golden State must adjust without Stephen Curry, who is sidelined at least a week with a quad injury, while New Orleans looks to snap a skid behind Zion Williamson’s return. Bettors must weigh the Warriors’ three-point volume against the Pelicans’ interior scoring and defensive rim protection.
Line Movement and Odds
- Pelicans Spread: +8.0 (-110)
- Warriors Spread: -8.0 (-109)
- Pelicans MoneyLine: +260
- Warriors MoneyLine: -320
- Total: 223.5 (Over -110, Under -110)
Golden State opened as home favorites despite Curry’s absence. See full NBA odds for market movement.
Matchup Breakdown
New Orleans Pelicans Outlook
New Orleans dropped a 133-128 overtime loss to Memphis despite Jose Alvarado’s 24 points and Saddiq Bey’s double-double. Zion Williamson has returned, scoring 29 in a win over Chicago earlier this week. The Pelicans rank fifth in two-point attempts and third in blocked shots per game, showing their ability to attack the paint and disrupt opponents. Their defense remains inconsistent, allowing 122.5 points per game, but pace and interior scoring give them upset potential.
Golden State Warriors Outlook
Golden State fell 104-100 to Houston, struggling with rebounding and defensive execution. Jimmy Butler III scored 21 points, while rookie Will Richard added 18. The Warriors lead the league in threes made (16.1 per game) and attempt the second-most, giving them perimeter firepower. Their effective FG% sits at 54.6, ranking 15th. At home, Golden State has shown offensive bursts, including a 134-point outing against Utah. Without Curry, secondary scorers must step up to maintain pace.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
Pelicans’ interior scoring vs Warriors’ perimeter shooting. If New Orleans controls the paint and limits Golden State’s threes, they can stay close. The Warriors must rebound better and rely on Butler and Richard to offset Curry’s absence.
Injuries / Availability
Golden State lists Stephen Curry (quad) as out for at least a week. For full player status, check the Warriors injury report.
New Orleans has Zion Williamson back from a hamstring strain, while Kevon Looney has not played in the last two games. See the Pelicans injury report for latest updates.
Environment
Chase Center provides Golden State a strong home edge, but fatigue and rebounding remain concerns. New Orleans’ pace and paint scoring could push the total higher, while Golden State’s perimeter reliance without Curry adds volatility.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Warriors 120, Pelicans 112
- Pelicans +8.0 (-110) → Best Bet. New Orleans’ pace and Zion’s scoring suggest they can keep the margin inside the number.
- Over 223.5 (-110) → Total. Our model projects 232 points, leaning over given both teams’ offensive profiles.
Golden State’s shooting depth should secure the win, but New Orleans’ interior attack makes this competitive. Expect the Warriors to edge out at home with the total trending over.
Handicappers and Service Plays
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