Kawhi Leonard (28 points) and James Harden (21 points, 10 assists) lead the Clippers past depleted New Orleans for their 12th win in the past 15 games, 114-98.

The Pelicans are in a tight spot with Williamson because he is so great when he plays, and yet his trade value is likely not what a player of his caliber should be given his inabi

Both the Pelicans and the Clippers defenses are on the improve, and that should help contribute to a low-scoring contest in Inglewood tonight, per our NBA betting picks.

The New Orleans Pelicans, out of NBA playoff contention, are shutting down Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum for the rest of the regular season, the team said on Monday.But with seven games left in the regular season the Pelicans are next to last in the Western Conference.

Multiple reporters including NBC Sports' Kurt Helin have indicated that the Pelicans are not expected to waive Williamson. That limits the Pelicans' options to either trading Williamson or committing to at least one more season with him. According to Charania, the latter option may necessitate some offseason discussion with the oft-injured star.

Sitting at 21-54, this Pelicans’ draft class will be an important one. New Orleans is in the home stretch of a star-crossed season marked by untimely injuries, questionable coaching and management decisions,