NBA Odds: Nets-Pelicans prediction, pick, how to watch

Brooklyn Nets (25-13) visit the New Orleans Pelicans (24-14) on Friday at 7:40 pm ET. New York had a 12-game win streak snapped recently but has propelled itself up to third place in the Eastern Conference. The Pelicans have lost two of their last three games but still sit in third in Western Conference, while covering 53% of the games.

Nets are playing the Pelicans.

Brooklyn's win streak was snapped by Chicago this week. They lost just three games since Thanksgiving. Brooklyn's defense has been impressive, with Nic Claxton and Kevin Durant playing a key role. The Nets are 16-3 in their last 19 games. The Pelicans are 8-2 in the last 20 games, including a win over Brooklyn. New Orleans is a team that has a chance to cover the spread tonight. It's a game that will be decided on the basis of the defense.

The Pelicans are home underdogs against the Nets. They have the seventh-best record in the league and have been an all-around force. The Pelicans have lost two of their last three games. Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson are injured. If the Pelicans want to cover the spread, they need CJ McCollum to continue his strong play. He has scored 26 and 28 points in their two games without Zion.

Brooklyn is playing well and is expected to continue that tonight. New Orleans is without Zion and will have some growing pains.

Brooklyn Nets are -4.5 at home against the New Orleans Pelicans.