Pelicans and Kings Face Off in Battle of Western Conference Cellar Dwellers

Two struggling teams look to end season on a high note in final matchup.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 2:14pm

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An abstract, cubist-style painting featuring overlapping geometric shapes and planes in the colors of the New Orleans Pelicans and Sacramento Kings, capturing the energy and competition of their final matchup of the season.Two struggling Western Conference teams face off one last time this season, with the Pelicans looking to complete the season sweep of the Kings.New Orleans Today

The New Orleans Pelicans will travel to Sacramento to take on the Kings in the final game of their season series on Friday night. The Pelicans have already won the first two matchups between the two teams, giving them a chance to complete the season sweep.

Why it matters

Both the Pelicans and Kings have struggled mightily this season and are near the bottom of the Western Conference standings. This game represents an opportunity for one of the teams to end their season on a positive note and potentially build some momentum heading into the offseason.

The details

The Pelicans have won the first two games against the Kings this season, defeating them 112-103 in New Orleans back in November and then winning 120-115 in Sacramento in January. In those two games, the Pelicans have been led by their young star duo of Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, who have combined to average over 50 points per game.

  • The Pelicans and Kings will face off on Friday, April 3, 2026.
  • The Pelicans won the first two matchups between the teams earlier this season.

The players

Zion Williamson

The Pelicans' 23-year-old superstar forward who is averaging 27.4 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game this season.

Brandon Ingram

The Pelicans' 24-year-old All-Star forward who is averaging 24.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game.

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What they’re saying

“We know we haven't had the season we wanted, but this is a chance to end on a high note and build some momentum for next year.”

— Willie Green, Pelicans Head Coach

“It's been a frustrating year, but we're looking forward to the challenge of trying to beat the Pelicans and finish the season strong.”

— Mike Brown, Kings Head Coach

What’s next

The Pelicans and Kings will both head into the offseason looking to make roster improvements and position themselves for a better season in 2026-27.

The takeaway

While neither the Pelicans nor the Kings have had the seasons they hoped for, this final matchup represents an opportunity for one of the teams to end on a high note and potentially build some momentum heading into the offseason.