New Orleans Pelicans vs Washington Wizards Prediction & Tips, 17 Oct 2026
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Series
| Game | Date | Home | Score | Away |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 09/01/2026 | Wizards | Final | Pelicans |
| 2 | 10/01/2026 | Wizards | 107 - 128 | Pelicans |
| 3 | 08/03/2026 | Pelicans | 138 - 118 | Wizards |
| 4 | 08/03/2026 | Pelicans | Final | Wizards |
| 5 | 05/02/2027 | Wizards | Not Started | Pelicans |
| 6 | 06/04/2027 | Pelicans | Not Started | Wizards |
Injury Report
Player Statistics
| Player | PTS | REB | AST | MIN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trey Murphy III | 21.5 | 5.7 | 3.8 | 35.5 |
| Zion Williamson | 21.0 | 5.7 | 3.2 | 29.7 |
| Saddiq Bey | 17.7 | 5.6 | 2.5 | 31.2 |
| Dejounte Murray | 16.7 | 5.4 | 6.4 | 27.8 |
| Jeremiah Fears | 14.3 | 3.7 | 3.4 | 25.8 |
| Player | PTS | REB | AST | MIN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CJ McCollum | 18.8 | 3.5 | 3.6 | 30.9 |
| Alex Sarr | 16.3 | 7.4 | 2.7 | 27.2 |
| Trae Young | 15.2 | 3.0 | 6.2 | 20.8 |
| Kyshawn George | 14.8 | 5.1 | 4.5 | 29.0 |
| Jaden Hardy | 12.6 | 1.7 | 1.3 | 20.4 |
Head to Head
Previous Meetings
Contents
Our Prediction
Our model projects a 114-105 victory for the Pelicans, covering the -9.0 spread with a 68% win probability.
Top Markets
- MoneylineNew Orleans Pelicans
- SpreadNew Orleans Pelicans -9
- Projected Total Points219
Match Facts
- Competition
- NBA
- Date
- Sat 17 Oct
- Tip-off
- 01:00
- Arena
- Smoothie King Center
Match Preview
This pre-season matchup features the New Orleans Pelicans hosting the Washington Wizards. Both teams are testing deep rotations, but the Pelicans' superior defensive structure and wing depth give them a distinct tactical advantage in this early-season tune-up.
Expect a high-tempo game with Washington pushing the pace. However, New Orleans' disciplined half-court defense should limit the Wizards' transition efficiency.
- Pelicans projected at 14.2% turnover rate.
- Wizards average 102.5 possessions per game.
- New Orleans holds a +4.5 rebounding margin.
- Washington's 3-point defense ranks in the bottom third.
Team Analysis
The Pelicans boast a projected 114.5 offensive rating in primary lineups. Washington struggles defensively, posting a weak 118.2 defensive rating last season, making them vulnerable to New Orleans' paint penetration.
Tactical Breakdown
Transition & Pace Edge: Washington will attempt to accelerate the game, but New Orleans' half-court execution will neutralize their speed.
Injuries & Doubts
Confirmed line-ups are usually out 60 to 90 minutes before tip-off.
Form and Head to Head
- W
- L
- W
- L
- W
New Orleans has won three of the last four meetings, dominating the glass and exploiting Washington's interior defensive weaknesses.
Key Stats
- Offensive Rating: 114.5
- Defensive Rating: 108.2
- Pace: 101.2
- eFG%: 54.8%
- Turnover Rate: 13.5%
Scoring, Rebounds, Turnovers and Fouls
| Stat | New Orleans Pelicans | Washington Wizards |
|---|---|---|
| Expected Points | 114 | 105 |
| 3s Made | 13 | 11 |
Foul Trouble Watch
Washington's aggressive drives could yield 22 free-throw attempts, but high foul rates may disrupt their defensive rhythm.
Rebounding Battle
New Orleans should dominate the defensive glass, securing a projected 76.5% defensive rebound rate against Washington's smaller lineup.
Turnover Watch
Washington's high-pace style risks 15.5 turnovers, fueling New Orleans' transition offense and easy secondary break points.
Verdict
New Orleans' superior defensive efficiency and rebounding dominance will secure a comfortable victory over the fast-paced but inefficient Wizards.
FAQ
Who is favored to win the Pelicans vs Wizards game?+
The New Orleans Pelicans are favored to win due to their superior defensive rating and rebounding advantage.
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