NBA Odds: Pelicans vs. Lakers prediction, odds and pick

The Los Angeles Lakers won their first game of the season against the Denver Nuggets on Sunday. The team is in trouble and is almost certain to finish with a losing record. Rob Pelinka deserves credit for the Anthony Davis trade and winning the 2020 title. New Orleans Pelicans are a team that could have a brighter future in the years ahead. They need Zion to remain healthy and gain ample NBA experience. If they get that from this season, the 2024 campaign could be especially exciting in New Pelicans. They have C.J. McCollum, Jonas Valanciunas and Zion Williamson. Their roster grew and developed in last season’s playoff run.

The Pelicans are clearly a better team than the Lakers. They played the Clippers on Sunday in Los Angeles and have stayed in the City of Angels for the past few days. Their younger legs should be able to wear down the Los Lakers in second half.

Lakers beat the Nuggets on Sunday. They should have more confidence going into the game against Pelicans.

The Pelicans are the better team. The Lakers are a bad team that is unlikely to keep pace with New Orleans.

Pelicans are favored by 3.5 points over the Lakers.