NBA
2026-01-09 · Evening Edition
WIN
Pelicans vs. Wizards
Pelicans -1.5
ANALYSIS
While our model highlights New Orleans' top-10 offensive rebound rate against a Wizards unit that ranks dead last in defensive boards, the narrative is bolstered by Washington’s mid-week trade of leading scorer CJ McCollum. With the Wizards in a roster transition and missing depth, we expect Zion Williamson and former Wizard Jordan Poole to exploit this interior weakness and snap the Pelicans' current skid. Our projected +5.5 possession advantage remains the key factor in New Orleans covering this narrow spread.
Key Data
Offensive Rebound Rate: 32.4%, Projected Possession Advantage: +5.5
OUTCOME
Pelicans 116 - Wizards 112
Zion Williamson's 12 fourth-quarter points in the paint were the difference. Washington lacked a secondary rim protector, allowing Zion to bulldoze through initial contact once the Wizards' starting center was in foul trouble.