Phoenix Suns Look to Maintain 6th Spot in Playoffs as they Face New Orleans Pelicans

Game outlook

As the Western Conference nears the end of the season, the New Orleans Pelicans (45-32) are set to face off against the Phoenix Suns (46-31) in a matchup at the Footprint Center in Phoenix. The Pelicans are looking to bounce back from a home loss to the Spurs, while the Suns are coming off a win against the Timberwolves. This will be the third and final matchup between these teams this season, with the Suns winning the first two games on the road. With Phoenix opening as the betting favorite at -6.5, tipoff is scheduled for 6:00 EST.

Betting Odds

Moneyline: Pelicans +215 | Suns -260

Spread: Pelicans +6.5 (-110) | Suns -6.5 (-110)

Total: Over/Under 222 (-110)

Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Phoenix will win straight-up is 72%.

New Orleans Pelicans

The New Orleans Pelicans have slipped to 7th in the Western Conference after four consecutive losses, placing them one game behind 6th place Phoenix and two games behind 5th place Dallas. Despite recent struggles, the team remains optimistic about finishing in a higher position. In their last game, CJ McCollum scored 31 points in a close loss to San Antonio. Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson were absent, with Ingram set to miss the next game and Williamson day to day with a finger injury. McCollum has been a standout performer, averaging 19.3 points per game and showcasing strong outside shooting. Trey Murphy III and Jonas Valanciunas have also been key contributors, while Herb Jones provides solid defense. The team's offensive and defensive rankings are noted, and their overall performance is analyzed in detail. An injury report lists Zion Williamson, Jose Alvarado, and Naji Marshall as questionable, with Brandon Ingram ruled out. Additionally, the Pelicans' statistics in various areas are highlighted, emphasizing their strengths and weaknesses across offense and defense.