Opinion
3 min read

Can the LA Clippers Seize Victory at Crypto.com Arena Against the New Orleans Pelicans?

As the LA Clippers gear up to host the New Orleans Pelicans at Crypto.com Arena, fans are eager to see if their team can bounce back from a string of challenging games. The upcoming clash on February 8th promises to be a pivotal moment in the Clippers' season.


LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 24: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers shoots a three point basket during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans during the In-Season Tournament on November 24, 2023 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images)

The recent performance of the Clippers has been a rollercoaster, with their last home game against Boston Celtics on December 23rd ending in a 108-145 loss. Despite this setback, there were positive takeaways for LAC. The team showcased an impressive free throw percentage of 100 and managed to score more than half of their fast-break attempts, converting them into points.


However, it's clear that defense is where LAC needs to focus its efforts. With Boston outscoring them by 37 points and leading for over 45 minutes of gameplay, it's evident that tightening up defensively could change the game for LAC. Additionally, while they had a higher three-point attempt rate than in previous games against Oklahoma City Thunder and Dallas Mavericks, their success rate from beyond the arc dropped significantly to just 32 percent.


LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 24: Herb Jones #5 of the New Orleans Pelicans drives to the basket during the game against the LA Clippers during the In-Season Tournament on November 24, 2023 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Tyler Ross/NBAE via Getty Images)

On offense, there's room for optimism as well. The bench contributed an impressive 55 points during their last outing at Crypto.com Arena – showing depth that could be crucial against NOP. Moreover, they've demonstrated an ability to maintain high two-point field goal percentages across recent matches – something they'll need against NOP's defense.


The Pelicans are not without their strengths; however, focusing on LAC’s actions reveals potential strategies for victory. By capitalizing on fast breaks and maintaining high efficiency inside the paint where they scored 50 points previously against BOS - despite ultimately losing - LAC can exploit any lapses in NOP’s defensive coverage.


LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 24: Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans looks on during the game against the LA Clippers during the In-Season Tournament on November 24, 2023 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Tyler Ross/NBAE via Getty Images)

Looking ahead at what might unfold when these two teams meet again under Los Angeles’ bright lights: If LAC leverages its bench depth effectively and tightens up defensively while maintaining offensive efficiency inside – particularly given NOP’s own defensive challenges – then fans might witness a much-needed win for their home team.


Clippers enthusiasts should mark their calendars for February 8th when this exciting matchup will tip-off at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles at (convert scheduled time into local timezone). For those unable to attend in person, catch all the action live on ESPN (channel 206), BSSC (channel 693) or BSNO (channel 676-4) depending on your location.

Rate the article

Related stories

Clippers to Unleash Offensive Onslaught on Mavericks at Crypto.com Arena
Opinion

Clippers to Unleash Offensive Onslaught on Mavericks at Crypto.com Arena

3 min read
LA Clippers Poised for Victory in Dallas as Momentum Swings Their Way
Opinion

LA Clippers Poised for Victory in Dallas as Momentum Swings Their Way

3 min read
Clippers Clashing with Mavericks: A Quest for Supremacy at Crypto.com Arena
Opinion

Clippers Clashing with Mavericks: A Quest for Supremacy at Crypto.com Arena

3 min read