The New Orleans Pelicans are set to host the Los Angeles Clippers on March 18, 2026, at the Smoothie King Center, with a tip-off scheduled for 8 PM ET. The Pelicans, currently holding a 23-46 record this season, are looking to extend their five-game home winning streak against a Clippers team that stands at 34-34.
In their recent performance, the Pelicans have shown resilience, winning ten out of their last 16 games. They will aim to maintain this momentum as they face a Clippers squad that is grappling with significant injuries, including the absence of Bradley Beal and Yanic Konan Niederhauser, both out for the season.
Dejounte Murray, who missed the previous game due to illness, is available for the Pelicans, adding a crucial element to their lineup. However, the status of Kawhi Leonard remains uncertain, as he is listed as questionable after tweaking his ankle over the weekend.
The Clippers, currently positioned as the eighth seed in the Western Conference, are under pressure to secure a win against the Pelicans, who are eager to capitalize on their home advantage. The Clippers can let out a major sigh of relief with Murray’s return, but they will need to navigate the game without key players.
As the teams prepare for this matchup, observers note the Pelicans’ desire to keep their hot streak going against a short-handed Clippers team. The stakes are high, and both teams are aware of the implications this game holds for their playoff aspirations.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding whether Kawhi Leonard will play, and there is uncertainty about Dejounte Murray’s performance on the second night of a back-to-back. With both teams facing challenges, fans can expect an intense and competitive game.
