Game Details:
Matchup: Pelicans (43-33) vs. Nets (31-46)
Date & Time: Tuesday, April 8, 2025 | 7:30 PM ET
Venue: Barclays Center, Brooklyn, NY
Betting Line: Pelicans -4.5 | Over/Under: 226.5

Key Storylines

Playoff Push for the Pelicans: With the Western Conference playoff race heating up, every win matters for the Pelicans. Coming into this matchup in the 7th spot, they’ll be looking to solidify their position or possibly leap into the top six to avoid the Play-In Tournament.

Nets in Development Mode: The Nets have officially been eliminated from playoff contention and are focused on player development. However, they are playing spoiler down the stretch, having defeated Miami just days ago. Playing at home, they will look to finish strong despite a lost season.

Zion Heating Up: Zion Williamson has been in monster form as of late, averaging 27.2 points and 8.6 rebounds over his last five games. He’s expected to be a major problem for Brooklyn’s front line.

Injury Report

Pelicans:
Out: Jose Alvarado (hamstring), Larry Nance Jr. (ankle)
Questionable: Brandon Ingram (knee)

Nets:
Out: Ben Simmons (back), Dorian Finney-Smith (knee), Dennis Smith Jr. (hip)
Questionable: Cam Thomas (ankle)

Betting Trends

Against the Spread (ATS):
Pelicans: 38-36-2 ATS this season
Nets: 32-43-2 ATS this season

Over/Under Trends:
The total has gone under in 5 of the last 7 games for the Pelicans
The total has gone over in 6 of the last 10 for the Nets

Road Edge:
Pelicans have been strong on the road recently, going 4-1 ATS in their last five road matches

Player Prop to Watch

Zion Williamson – Points Total: 24.5
Zion has surpassed 25 points in four of his last five games. With the Nets lacking interior defense, look for another big night. The over on this prop offers value.

Prediction & Best Bets

Spread: Pelicans -4.5 → New Orleans has more at stake, and the Nets are banged up and inconsistent.
Total: Under 226.5 → Brooklyn’s lack of offensive firepower may limit scoring.
Player Prop: Zion Williamson Over 24.5 points → The clear go-to option in a must-win game.

The Pelicans should take care of business against a Nets squad playing out the string. Expect a focused New Orleans team to dominate inside, especially if Zion gets going early. With a playoff spot on the line, motivation and talent both lean toward the visitors.

Final Score Prediction: Pelicans 114, Nets 103