Mavericks vs Pelicans Odds, Preview, and Prediction

Quinn Allen
By , Updated on: Dec 19, 2023 07:00 PM
Mavericks vs Pelicans Odds, Preview, and Prediction
  • What: Mavericks vs Pelicans
  • Date: Tuesday, October 25th
  • Location: Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana
  • Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
  • How to Watch: TNT

While Warriors vs Suns is arguably the most eye-grabbing contest of Tuesday's slate, the Dallas Mavericks facing the New Orleans Pelicans is also a matchup that should be a treat to watch. Luka Doncic and Co. are 1-1 so far and just blew out a very good Memphis Grizzlies team, while the Pels were unbeaten until an overtime loss on Sunday to the surprising Utah Jazz. Unfortunately, both Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram left that contest with injuries. Zion is questionable to feature, while Ingram is in concussion protocol. Continue reading for the Mavericks vs Pelicans prediction.

Before we get into the odds, preview, and early prediction, take a look at our tips for betting on NBA games and how to bet on NBA futures.

Mavericks vs Pelicans Odds

BetOnlineSpreadMoneylineTotal
Dallas Mavericks-3.5 (-110)-150TBD
New Orleans Pelicans+3.5 (-110)+140TBD

The Mavs are a slim 3.5-point favorite here. Dallas, who made the conference finals last season, when 3-1 against the Pels during the regular campaign.

Dallas Coming Off Statement Victory

The Mavericks lost a nailbiter on Opening Night to the Suns but definitely bounced back with authority against a divisional foe in the Grizzlies. To beat Memphis is a tough task in itself but to do it by 41 points is practically unheard of. That's why this victory was so impressive. Of course, Luka led the way with 32 points, 10 assists, and seven rebounds, while three other scorers finished in double-figures. Offseason acquisition Christian Wood balled out for 25 and 12 off the bench as well. Dallas came out guns blazing in the first quarter, outscoring the Grizz 39-17 and then also pouring it on in the fourth, scoring 38 points to just 25 for Memphis. The in-depth numbers really show why this was such a lopsided game, though. Jason Kidd's team outrebounded their opponent 52-29 and killed them in second-chance points, 27-11. They never trailed, either. There is no question the Mavs will be marching into Tuesday's contest with loads of confidence, especially with Zion and Ingram potentially out.

The Pels have looked the part early on in the season with Williamson finally back and healthy. But, he gave every NOLA fan a massive scare on Sunday, suffering a hip injury on a scary fall. Given his history of health, there is a good chance the Pelicans just let him sit out for this matchup and get some much-needed rest. Before exiting though, Zion was balling. He had 25 points in just 29 minutes, imposing his will inside and is averaging just over 22 points per game in three outings. CJ McCollum led the squad with 28 points and 12 assists and continues to flourish as one of their primary ball-handlers. Overall, it was a very promising all-around performance. five players collected at least 10 points apiece and New Orleans absolutely cooked Utah in transition, outscoring them 28-13. A loss is a loss though and Willie Green's men will be poised to respond. Sans Zion and Ingram though, it will not be easy because Dallas is feeling themselves at the moment. McCollum, Jose Alvarado, Jonas Valanciunas, and others must step up in a big way to make up for the loss of two key figures in the rotation.

Mavericks vs Pelicans Prediction

I've been all in on the Pelicans train. I firmly believe they're capable of big things this season and could be the dark horse of the West. If Zion and Ingram are playing here, it's an easy pick. But, since that's not the case, I'm liking the Mavericks here to keep the momentum going. There is just no way the Pels risk Williamson's health this early.

Between Luka, Spencer Dinwiddie, Tim Hardaway Jr, and Wood, Dallas will definitely be able to cover the spread on the road.

Dallas Mavericks To cover vs New Orleans Pelicans
-3.5 (-110)
BetOnline

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Meet the author

Quinn Allen

Quinn Allen leverages his broadcast journalism degree and passion for sports in his betting previews and analysis. Based in Kelowna, Canada, he has emerged as an expert voice with picks featured on OSB, MTS, SBD, and as a ClutchPoints editor. With a lifelong fandom of...

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