Kamal Ghorui
The Los Angeles Clippers come into this game at 34-35 and will play the New Orleans Pelicans, who are 24-46, at the Smoothie King Center. The difference in record does not fully reflect how this game could unfold, especially with both teams dealing with several injuries.There is still uncertainty around multiple players, which affects how both teams may approach this game. With key names either out or listed as questionable, the result may depend more on role players and bench depth than the usual starters.
Los Angeles Clippers vs New Orleans Pelicans Injury Report and Player Availability (March 19, 2026)
The Clippers are managing several injuries. Kawhi Leonard is questionable with a left ankle sprain. Bradley Beal has been ruled out for the season due to left hip surgery. Darius Garland is out with a toe issue. Bennedict Mathurin is also out with a toe injury. Yanic Konan Niederhauser will miss the rest of the season with a Lisfranc tear.For the Pelicans, Bryce McGowens is out with a right toe fracture. Dejounte Murray is listed as questionable due to illness after missing the previous game. Trey Alexander and Hunter Dickinson are not available. If Murray does not play, Zion Williamson and Trey Murphy III are expected to take on more responsibility.
| Team | Player | Status | Injury |
| Clippers | Kawhi Leonard | Questionable | Left ankle sprain |
| Clippers | Bradley Beal | Out (season) | Left hip fracture |
| Clippers | Darius Garland | Out | Left toe |
| Clippers | Bennedict Mathurin | Out | Right toe |
| Clippers | Yanic Niederhauser | Out (season) | Right Lisfranc tear |
| Pelicans | Bryce McGowens | Out | Right toe fracture |
| Pelicans | Dejounte Murray | Questionable | Illness |
The Clippers will depend on James Harden to run the offense, with Ivica Zubac handling work inside. Chris Paul and Brook Lopez provide depth, especially with multiple players unavailable.The Pelicans will build around Zion Williamson. Jordan Poole will handle scoring from the perimeter, and Herb Jones will focus on defense. Trey Murphy III is likely to see a larger role, especially if Murray is out.– Clippers Key Players: James Harden (PG), Bradley Beal (SG, injured), Derrick Jones (SF), Kawhi Leonard (PF, questionable), Ivica Zubac (C)– Pelicans Key Players: Jeremiah Fears (PG), Jordan Poole (SG), Herb Jones (SF), Trey Murphy III (PF), Zion Williamson (C)
Los Angeles Clippers vs New Orleans Pelicans Head-to-Head Record and Recent Meetings
The Pelicans lead the all-time series 45-36. This season, the Clippers lead 2-1. The Clippers won 126-124 in October and 137-117 on March 1. The Pelicans won the last meeting 124-109 on March 18.The Clippers have lost their last two games. The Pelicans have won their last two games.
Los Angeles Clippers vs New Orleans Pelicans Team Stats Comparison and Recent Performances
The Clippers rely on Leonard for scoring, Harden for playmaking, and Zubac for rebounds. The Pelicans rely on Williamson inside and Murphy’s overall play.
| Stat Category | Los Angeles Clippers (34-35) | New Orleans Pelicans (24-46) |
| Recent PPG Leaders | Leonard 23.8, Harden 21.8 | Williamson 23.5, Poole 19.8 |
| Rebound Avg | Zubac 8.6 | Murphy 6.8, Missi 6.8 |
| Standings Note | 3rd Pacific | Struggling, recent wins |
Los Angeles Clippers vs New Orleans Pelicans Game Outlook and What to Expect
If Leonard does not play, the Clippers will rely more on Harden to control the game and create chances. Chris Paul may also play a role against second units.For the Pelicans, the focus will be on Williamson inside, especially against Zubac. With both teams missing players, the game could depend on which bench performs better.
