New Orleans PelicansOpen full analysisVSLos Angeles ClippersOpen full analysis

The Los Angeles Clippers edged the New Orleans Pelicans 126–124 on October 31 at Intuit Dome in a closely contested matchup decided by two points. Kawhi Leonard led the Clippers with 34 points, while James Harden added 24 as Los Angeles shot 51.7 percent from the field and made 15 three-pointers. New Orleans countered with Jordan Poole scoring 30 points and Zion Williamson adding 29, though the Pelicans committed 15 turnovers compared to the Clippers' 12. The Pelicans made 18 threes and grabbed 43 rebounds but shot just 48.2 percent overall. Los Angeles dominated the second quarter, outscoring New Orleans 41–31 to seize control, while the Pelicans' fourth-quarter surge (40 points) nearly completed the comeback. Both teams posted nearly identical offensive ratings of 125.7 and 125.6, reflecting the offensive firepower on display, though the Clippers' defensive execution—12 steals and a 125.6 defensive rating—proved the difference. The result keeps Los Angeles undefeated at home while testing New Orleans' early-season consistency.