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New Orleans Pelicans vs Portland Trail Blazers Betting Preview
New Orleans opens 2026 at home trying to stop a five-game skid as Portland visits for the second time in three weeks. The Pelicans routed the Blazers 143-120 during a December win streak, but the defense has slipped since. Zion Williamson has responded to a return to the starting lineup with back-to-back 30-point games and looks more explosive each night.
Portland arrives after dropping four of six and continues to search for consistent offense. The Blazers cleared their scoring average against Dallas earlier in the week but followed it with a lopsided loss at Oklahoma City. Injuries remain a problem, and shooting efficiency has limited their margin for error.
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Line Movement and Odds
New Orleans opened -8 and has been bet up to -9.5 as Williamson’s minutes and usage stabilize. Portland sits at +9.5, but has attracted little sharp interest due to defensive concerns and missing scorers.
The total opened at 236.5 and moved up to 238. Bettors are reacting to New Orleans’ defensive regression and Portland’s willingness to push pace even when shots are not falling. Moneyline pricing reflects Pelicans control at home.
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Matchup Breakdown
New Orleans’ success hinges on defensive engagement. During their five-game win streak, the Pelicans did not allow more than 120 points in regulation. That discipline has vanished recently. Offensively, Zion’s downhill pressure opens space and reduces reliance on jump shooting.
Portland struggles to score efficiently. The Blazers rank near the bottom of the league in field-goal percentage and have failed to reach triple digits multiple times in December. Deni Avdija carries the scoring load, while Shaedon Sharpe’s shot selection remains volatile. Without full health, Portland must win on effort and rebounding.
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Injuries and Conditions
New Orleans Pelicans
- Zion Williamson, adductor management, probable
- Brandon Ingram, knee, probable
See full New Orleans Pelicans injury report.
Portland Trail Blazers
- Jerami Grant, Achilles, questionable
- Jrue Holiday, calf, out
- Anfernee Simons, ankle, probable
See full Portland Trail Blazers injury report.
This game is indoors. No weather impact.
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Best Bets and Prediction
New Orleans owns the matchup edge if defensive intensity returns. Portland’s shooting issues and injury list limit their upside on the road. With Zion peaking physically, the Pelicans have separation potential late.
Projected Score: Pelicans 121, Trail Blazers 109
Best Bet: Pelicans -9.5
Secondary Lean: Over 238
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