The New Orleans Pelicans will host the Sacramento Kings at the Smoothie King Center on February 9, 2026, in a Western Conference clash between two struggling teams looking for momentum. Both franchises are currently near the bottom of the standings, but this game offers a chance to rebuild confidence before the All-Star break.
New Orleans enter the contest with renewed energy after a strong upset win over Minnesota, showing signs of offensive improvement. Meanwhile, Sacramento are going through a difficult phase, having lost 12 straight games and dealing with multiple injuries to key players. With the Kings short-handed and struggling for form, the Pelicans have a big opportunity to take advantage at home.
The game is scheduled to tip off at 8:00 PM ET, and home-court advantage combined with better recent momentum makes New Orleans the clear favorite heading into this matchup.
Match Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Match | Sacramento Kings vs New Orleans Pelicans |
| Date | February 9, 2026 |
| Time | 8:00 PM ET |
| Venue | Smoothie King Center, New Orleans |
| Broadcast | NBA League Pass, NBC Sports California, Regional Networks |
Team Records & Recent Form
The Pelicans hold a 14–40 record and sit at the bottom of the Western Conference. However, they recently delivered a confidence-boosting 119–115 win over the Timberwolves, showing improved scoring and energy.
The Kings are 12–42 and also near the bottom of the standings. Their biggest concern is form, as they have lost 12 consecutive games and struggled on both ends of the floor during this stretch.
Last 5 Games
New Orleans Pelicans
- W vs Minnesota (119–115)
- L vs Milwaukee (OT)
- L vs Charlotte
- L vs Philadelphia
- Overall: 1–4 in last five but positive momentum from latest win
Sacramento Kings
- L vs Cleveland
- L vs Clippers
- L vs Memphis
- L vs Washington
- L vs Boston
- Overall: 0–5 in last five, continuing long losing streak
Head-to-Head Record
The Pelicans have had the edge over Sacramento this season and in recent meetings.
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| 2025–26 Season Series | Pelicans lead 2–1 |
| Last Meeting (Jan 18, 2026) | Kings 124–102 Pelicans |
| All-Time Regular Season | Pelicans lead 45–36 |
New Orleans have won two of the last three matchups, although Sacramento did manage one dominant victory in January.
Injury Report
New Orleans Pelicans
- Dejounte Murray – Out (Achilles injury)
- Depth players assigned to G League
Sacramento Kings
- Zach LaVine – Out
- Malik Monk – Out
- Keegan Murray – Out
- De’Andre Hunter – Out
- Domantas Sabonis – Questionable
- Doug McDermott – Questionable
Sacramento’s long injury list is a major concern and could heavily impact their rotation and scoring.
Key Players to Watch
New Orleans Pelicans
- Zion Williamson: 21.6 PPG, 58.1% FG
- Brandon Ingram: ~22.2 PPG (limited games)
- Trey Murphy III: Key scorer, strong recent performance
Sacramento Kings
- De’Aaron Fox: 25.0 PPG, 6.1 APG
- Domantas Sabonis: 19.1 PPG, 13.9 RPG (if available)
- Team strength: Offensive ability, but defensive issues remain
Also see: Top 10 Most 3-Pointers in an NBA Game
Team Stats Comparison
| Team | Points Per Game | Key Trend |
|---|---|---|
| Pelicans | ~110 PPG | Improved offense recently |
| Kings | ~118 PPG | Poor defense, long losing streak |
Despite better scoring numbers, Sacramento’s defensive struggles and injuries have hurt their performance.
Betting Odds
| Market | Odds Range |
|---|---|
| Spread | Pelicans -7.5 to -9.5 |
| Moneyline | Pelicans -310 to -325 |
| Total | 230.5 – 231.5 |
New Orleans are heavy home favorites due to Sacramento’s poor form and injury concerns.
Match Prediction
With momentum from their recent win and a healthier lineup, the Pelicans hold a clear advantage. The Kings’ long losing streak and missing key players make it difficult for them to compete consistently on the road.
Predicted Score:
Pelicans 122 – Kings 115
Best Picks
- Pelicans -8.5 (strong home value)
- Under 231.5 total points
- Zion Williamson Over 20.5 points
- Kings +9.5 (value option if game stays close)
This matchup gives New Orleans a chance to build momentum and take control early at home. Sacramento are struggling with confidence, injuries, and defensive issues, making them vulnerable on the road. Expect the Pelicans to control the game and secure a comfortable win, while Zion Williamson could once again lead the scoring effort.
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