Can the New Orleans Pelicans Continue Their Home Dominance After Topping LA Clippers?
The New Orleans Pelicans, with a 40-26 record, faced off against the LA Clippers, standing at 42-24. In a game that saw multiple lead changes and ties, it was the Pelicans who emerged victorious with a final score of 112-104.
The Smoothie King Center in New Orleans played host to an intense matchup where the home team displayed remarkable resilience and skill. The New Orleans Pelicans showcased their offensive capabilities by scoring 58 points in the paint compared to the Clippers' 36. This dominance inside was complemented by their bench outscoring that of the Clippers', contributing a significant 43 points to their total.
On defense, the Pelicans were equally impressive, managing eight steals over their opponents' six and blocking two shots. They also capitalized on turnovers more effectively than the Clippers, scoring 12 points from these opportunities. The team's efficiency on both ends of the court was reflected in their higher efficiency game score of 94.1 against that of their opponents' at 83.
The three-point line also proved fruitful for both teams; however, it was slightly more advantageous for New Orleans as they made thirteen out of thirty-five attempts (37 percent), while Los Angeles converted twelve out of thirty-three (36 percent). Free throw accuracy played its part too; although Los Angeles had an impressive free throw percentage at around seventy-five percent making eighteen out twenty attempts, it wasn't enough to close down on or surpass New Orleans’ lead.
Rebounding was another area where New Orleans excelled with forty-nine total rebounds including nine offensive ones which helped them maintain possession and control over the game flow. Their defensive efforts limited Los Angeles to forty-two rebounds.
As time wound down in this closely contested battle between two formidable teams within their conference standings, it became clear that maintaining possession and capitalizing on each opportunity would be crucial for victory – something that The Pelicans managed better throughout this encounter.
Looking ahead after this hard-fought win at home, fans can anticipate another exciting match as The New Orleans Pelicans prepare to host Portland Trail Blazers at Smoothie King Center on March 16th at 6:00 PM CT. This upcoming game will be broadcasted live on BSNO and ROOT Sports NW+, ensuring fans won’t miss any action from what promises to be yet another captivating contest.