New Orleans Pelicans vs Los Angeles Clippers injury report: Who's playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (March 1, 2026)

The New Orleans Pelicans travel to face the Los Angeles Clippers on March 1, 2026, in a Western Conference game between two teams trying to steady uneven seasons. Both sides are outside the top group in the standings, so this game is more about staying in the mix than making a statement.Player availability is the main focus. Both teams have injuries that could affect rotations, scoring, and how they close the game. The result may come down to which team handles those gaps better over four quarters.

New Orleans Pelicans vs Los Angeles Clippers Injury Report and Player Availability (March 1, 2026)

The New Orleans Pelicans could be without Zion Williamson, who is listed as questionable with a right ankle sprain. He left early in their last win against the Jazz, and if he does not play, it removes a key scoring option inside.

Yves Missi is also questionable with a calf issue.Trey Murphy III has been ruled out with a shoulder injury, and Dejounte Murray is still out while working his way back. That leaves New Orleans short on both ends of the floor.For the Clippers, Kawhi Leonard is available after dealing with an ankle issue. His return helps on both ends. He is expected to play alongside Ivica Zubac, giving Los Angeles a steady presence in the frontcourt.

New Orleans Pelicans vs Los Angeles Clippers Confirmed Rosters for Both Teams (March 1, 2026)

New Orleans continues to rely on a mix of young players and regular contributors.Pelicans key players include Zion Williamson (PF), Jordan Poole (SG), Jeremiah Fears (PG), Trey Murphy III (SF), Yves Missi (C), Saddiq Bey (SF), Herb Jones (SF), and Derik Queen (C).The Clippers have a more experienced group led by Kawhi Leonard (F), James Harden (G), Ivica Zubac (C), John Collins (F), Kris Dunn (PG), Brook Lopez (C), Derrick Jones (SF), and Nicolas Batum (F-G).These rosters reflect moves made during the 2025–26 season, with no former Pelicans players included.

New Orleans Pelicans vs Los Angeles Clippers Head-to-Head Record

The Pelicans lead this matchup overall. They have won 44 of the 79 regular-season meetings, while the Clippers have 35 wins. Recent games have been close, but there is limited information from this season to show a clear pattern.

New Orleans Pelicans vs Los Angeles Clippers Team Performance Snapshot

New Orleans has struggled on the road with an 8-21 record. The Clippers have relied on their home defense to stay competitive.

New Orleans Pelicans vs Los Angeles Clippers Key Contributors This Season

For the Pelicans, Zion Williamson leads with about 19.9–21.7 points per game, along with 6.1 rebounds and 3.6 assists. Jordan Poole adds around 17 points, and Jeremiah Fears averages 13.3 points per game.The Clippers are led by James Harden, who is averaging between 21.8 and 25.8 points with 9.2 assists. Kawhi Leonard adds 23.8 points and 6.0 rebounds, while Ivica Zubac contributes 15.2 points and 8.6 rebounds.

New Orleans Pelicans vs Los Angeles Clippers Game Outlook and What to Expect (March 1, 2026)

If Williamson plays, the game inside is more even, with his style matched against Leonard’s control. If he does not play, the Clippers have the edge in structure and experience.Los Angeles comes in with a more stable lineup and fewer changes, which could matter. The Pelicans will need scoring from several players to stay in the game. Tip-off is set for 8:00 PM ET in Los Angeles.