Wizards vs Pelicans Picks and Prediction – 1/4/2025

The Smoothie King Center will play host to a Friday night NBA clash between the Washington Wizards and the New Orleans Pelicans. For other NBA action see our NBA Predictions. The Wizards (6-25) have dropped 12 of their first 13 road games and own the worst overall record in the Eastern Conference. On Wednesday, Washington outscored Chicago by 14 points during the second half to pull away for a 125-107 home victory. 

Jordan Poole led seven Washington players in double figures with 30 points on 10-for-21 from the field. Veteran C Jonas Valanciunas chipped in 14 points and six rebounds off the bench. Malcolm Brogdon added 12 points and six assists for the Wizards. 

The New Orleans Pelicans have been decimated by early season injuries and are in the midst of an 11-game losing streak. The Pelicans (5-29) rank near the bottom of the league in defensive efficiency and are surrendering 118 points per contest. On Wednesday, New Orleans missed 25 of 34 three-point attempts during a 119-108 road loss against Miami. 

New Orleans G Trey Murphy III tallied a game-high 34 points on 11-for-24 shooting and pulled down four boards. Veteran G C.J. McCollum added 22 points and five assists for the Pelicans. Brandon Boston scored 14 points in 20 minutes off the bench. 

New Orleans F Zion Williamson (hamstring) was a limited participant during Sunday’s practice and hopes to return this weekend. The Wizards play at the fourth fastest tempo in the league and both teams struggle to get stops. Take the over. Final Score Prediction, New Orleans Pelicans win 122-117.