Pelicans Warriors prediction New Orleans return home road trip unbeaten

Pelicans aim for top-six seed, Warriors eye play-in tournament. Zion, Curry lead teams in a crucial game with playoff implications.

The New Orleans Pelicans are on the verge of securing a top-six seed in the Western Conference with a crucial matchup against the Golden State Warriors on Friday night at Chase Center in San Francisco.

Currently holding a record of 48-32, the Pelicans have already clinched a playoff spot. However, securing a top-six seed would allow them to avoid the play-in tournament and earn some much-needed rest. They are just one game ahead of the Phoenix Suns (47-33), but the Suns hold the tiebreaker. If the Pelicans win on Friday and Phoenix loses to Sacramento, New Orleans will officially lock in the No. 6 seed.

On the other hand, the Golden State Warriors (45-35) are set to participate in the play-in tournament. Currently sitting in the No. 9 position, the Warriors have a chance to move up to No. 8 and improve their playoff prospects with a string of victories.

The Pelicans have bounced back from a rough 1-5 homestand earlier in the month by winning three consecutive road games leading up to Friday's matchup. Their recent 135-123 victory over Sacramento showcased strong performances from Zion Williamson, C.J. McCollum, and Trey Murphy. Additionally, the return of Brandon Ingram is expected in time for Sunday's regular season finale against the Los Angeles Lakers.

Meanwhile, the Warriors have been on a hot streak, winning nine of their last 10 games to secure a spot in the play-in tournament. Led by Steph Curry and Klay Thompson, Golden State is in top form heading into the matchup against the Pelicans.

DraftKings Sportsbook has listed the Warriors as 4-point favorites with an over/under of 221 points for the game.

Both teams will be playing on the second night of a back-to-back, with Thompson and Green potentially being game-time decisions due to injuries. Despite potential fatigue, both teams have the offensive firepower to keep the game competitive.

In conclusion, the stage is set for an exciting showdown between the Pelicans and the Warriors, with both teams looking to solidify their positions in the playoff race. It's bound to be a thrilling contest with high stakes and intense competition.