New Orleans vs. Washington. NBA Match Prediction
On January 4, two outsiders of their conferences, New Orleans and Washington, will meet as part of the NBA regular championship. Will the hosts be able to take advantage of their home advantage, or will the visitors show their strength after their recent victory? - find out in our forecast

Command Analysis

New Orleans Pelicans

Current form
The Pelicans are in last place in the Western Conference, unable to withstand competition from stronger opponents. This is not only due to inconsistent play, but also numerous injuries to key players. Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram continue to be in the infirmary, which weakens the team offensive potential.
In the last match, Willie Green team lost to Miami (108:119). Despite their efforts, the Pelicans were unable to cope with the opponent leaders. The upcoming game against Washington is a chance for the team to improve its position and break the losing streak. However, to do this, they need to seriously improve their defense and use maximum attacking opportunities.
Disqualifications and injuries
Zion Williamson, Karlo Matkovic and Brandon Ingram are all out of next game with injuries.
Interesting facts for betting
The team has not won in its last 11 matches.
Probable lineup: Jones - Murphy, Missy - Murray, McCollum.

Washington Wizards

Current form
The capital club is also in a difficult situation, occupying one of the last positions in the Eastern Conference. Frequent injuries to key players and lack of teamwork have had a negative impact on the team results. However, in the last match, the Wizards showed a glimmer of their previous level, defeating Chicago (125:107).
Jordan Poole led the team with 30 points, a win that inspired Brian Keefe men to continue in the same vein. The game against a weakened New Orleans will be a test of consistency and a chance to show that Washington can still compete.
Disqualifications and injuries
Marvin Bagley, Saddiq Bay and Bilal Coulibaly will not be able to take part in the match due to health problems.
Interesting facts for betting
The Wizards have only one road win since the start of the season.
Probable lineup: Champagne - Brogdon, Sarr - Carrington, Poole.
Trends
Bet 1st quarter. Washington win
In 4 of the last 5 head-to-head games, the Wizards have won in the first quarter.
2.40Bet 1st quarter: total over 57.5 points
In 3 of the last 5 head-to-head games, more than 57 points were scored in the first quarter.
1.80Tip and bets
New Orleans would normally be in the middle of the pack, but injuries to key players have left the team at the bottom of the Western Conference. Home court gives the Pelicans a slight advantage, but that doesn't guarantee success.
Washington, despite its problems, showed an excellent game against Chicago and intends to build on its success. The Wizards play inconsistently, but with the right motivation they are in no way inferior to New Orleans. In our opinion, the match will be tense, with a slight advantage for the guests.
Our prediction is a Washington victory with a handicap of (+8.5) points for 1.70
Bet on total
Both teams like to play open basketball, especially in games where there is not much pressure. Defense is unlikely to come to the fore, which makes betting on the total more justified.
Forecast - total over 230 points for 1.67
Bet on statistics
Washington gained confidence after the win over Chicago. The team was active in attack, and this mood should continue. We expect the Wizards to show another productive game against a weakened opponent.
Forecast - Washington individual total over 111 points for 1.70