New Orleans Pelicans vs San Antonio Spurs Prediction | 01.25.26

New Orleans Pelicans vs San Antonio Spurs Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 25-01-2026

The Frost Bank Center in San Antonio is set to host a compelling regular-season matchup on January 25, 2026, at 7:00 PM, as the struggling New Orleans Pelicans (11-36) face off against the formidable San Antonio Spurs (31-14). This clash presents a stark contrast in team trajectories, with the Spurs looking to solidify their playoff standing and the Pelicans desperate to find some form amidst a challenging season.

New Orleans Pelicans vs San Antonio Spurs Matchup Preview

New Orleans Pelicans Key Stats & Trends

The New Orleans Pelicans have endured a difficult season, reflected in their 11-36 record. Despite their struggles, Trey Murphy III has emerged as a consistent offensive threat, leading the team with 22.3 points per game. Rookie Derik Queen has showcased promising all-around potential, contributing 7.4 rebounds and 4.4 assists per contest. Murphy’s overall impact is undeniable, boasting an impressive rating of 22.3 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.6 SPG, and 0.3 BPG. However, the team’s overall offensive efficiency and defensive consistency have been major concerns, contributing to their poor record.

Injury Report New Orleans Pelicans

• Jose Alvarado (Out): Alvarado (oblique) is listed as questionable for Sunday’s game against San Antonio. His absence impacts guard depth and defensive intensity.
• Dejounte Murray (Out): Pelicans head coach James Borrego said Sunday that Murray (Achilles) is “making a lot of progress” but doesn’t appear to be close to making his season debut. Murray’s prolonged absence is a significant blow, as he is a primary playmaker and scorer.

San Antonio Spurs Key Stats & Trends

The San Antonio Spurs are enjoying a stellar season, with their 31-14 record powered largely by the transcendent talent of Victor Wembanyama. Wembanyama is dominating on both ends of the floor, leading the team with 24.5 points and 10.9 rebounds per game, while also swatting away an incredible 2.6 blocks per game. His comprehensive rating stands at 24.5 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 2.9 APG, 0.8 SPG, and 2.6 BPG. Rookie Stephon Castle has been a revelation in the backcourt, dishing out an impressive 7.1 assists per game, showcasing his elite playmaking ability. The Spurs’ blend of youth and strategic veteran presence has made them a formidable force in the league.

Injury Report San Antonio Spurs

• Luke Kornet (Day-to-day): Kornet (thigh) is listed as questionable for Sunday’s game against the Pelicans. His availability could impact frontcourt depth.
• David Jones Garcia (Day-to-day): Jones Garcia totaled 12 points, five rebounds, and six assists in 19 minutes during Thursday’s 135-126 victory over the Hawks, indicating he is active and contributing.

New Orleans Pelicans vs San Antonio Spurs Prediction & Best Bet

The San Antonio Spurs enter this contest as overwhelming favorites, and for good reason. Their impressive 31-14 record, combined with the Pelicans’ abysmal 11-36 standing and significant injury woes, paints a clear picture. With Dejounte Murray sidelined indefinitely and Jose Alvarado also out, New Orleans is severely depleted in the backcourt and lacks the consistent playmaking needed to challenge a top-tier team. Victor Wembanyama’s dominant two-way play, supported by Stephon Castle’s superb facilitating, will be too much for the Pelicans to handle. Expect the Spurs’ potent offense to exploit New Orleans’ defensive vulnerabilities, while Wembanyama anchors a strong defensive effort. The spread of San Antonio Spurs -11.5 (Spread) is highly attainable given the talent disparity and home-court advantage. Furthermore, with both teams capable of scoring—Spurs efficiently and Pelicans with some individual brilliance—and the Pelicans’ defensive struggles, the game total is likely to exceed the projected line. Therefore, we predict the total points to go over 238.5.