Pelicans Look to Extend Win Streak Against Clippers

New Orleans visits Los Angeles in Sunday NBA matchup

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The New Orleans Pelicans (19-42) will look to extend their winning streak to 5 games as they visit the LA Clippers (27-31) on Sunday night. The Pelicans are coming off a road win against the Utah Jazz, while the Clippers have dropped their last 3 games, including a home loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Kawhi Leonard is expected to return to the Clippers' lineup after missing their last game with an ankle injury.

Why it matters

This matchup features two teams heading in opposite directions. The Pelicans have found their footing lately, winning 6 of their last 8 games, while the Clippers have struggled, losing 3 straight. The return of Kawhi Leonard could provide a boost for the Clippers, but the Pelicans have had success against LA recently, covering the spread in 6 straight meetings.

The details

In their first meeting this season, the Clippers defeated the Pelicans 126-124, but New Orleans covered the 11-point spread as underdogs. Leonard scored 34 points in that game. The Pelicans have been strong on the road lately, winning 3 straight away games, although 2 of those were against the lowly Jazz. The Clippers have been solid at home this season, posting a 14-13 record at Intuit Dome.

  • The Pelicans and Clippers will tip off at 9 p.m. ET on Sunday, March 1, 2026.
  • The Pelicans last played on Saturday, February 28, defeating the Jazz 115-105.
  • The Clippers last played on Thursday, February 26, losing to the Timberwolves 94-88.

The players

Kawhi Leonard

A star forward for the LA Clippers who missed the team's last game due to an ankle injury but is expected to return for this matchup.

New Orleans Pelicans

The New Orleans-based NBA team that has won 6 of their last 8 games and is looking to extend their winning streak against the struggling Clippers.

LA Clippers

The Los Angeles-based NBA team that has lost 3 straight games and is hoping to bounce back at home with the return of Kawhi Leonard.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This game features two teams heading in opposite directions, with the surging Pelicans looking to continue their recent success on the road against a struggling Clippers squad that will be boosted by the return of star Kawhi Leonard. The Pelicans have had the Clippers' number in recent meetings, but LA will be motivated to get back on track at home.