The Brooklyn Nets' 2021-22 season ended in disaster as they were swept by the Boston Celtics in the first round of the NBA Playoffs. Meanwhile, the New Orleans Pelicans shined during the play-in tournament and took No. 1 seeded Phoenix Suns to six games before bowing out in the first round.
These two squads meet to open their respective 2022-23 seasons in search of a statement victory.
Pelicans vs Nets Odds
Brooklyn enters this contest as a small -146 favorite on the moneyline (2.5-point spread), according to FanDuel Sportsbook's'NBA odds. This cross-conference showdown's total is set at 230.5 points.
What should NBA fans expect to happen in this exciting matchup, and where can bettors find value?
Pelicans vs Nets Prediction and Best Bet
This game features no shortage of NBA stars. Zion Williamson is set to make his return to the court for New Orleans and join All-Star guard CJ McCollum. Meanwhile, Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving lead a veteran Brooklyn squad looking to build chemistry with last year's trade acquisition, Ben Simmons.
The Pelicans have a major advantage heading into this game and that is on the boards. New Orleans posted the third-best offensive rebounding percentage last season (27.5%) and should dominate a Brooklyn defense that allowed the fifth-highest opponent offensive rebounding percentage (25.1%).
The size of New Orleans could cause a lot of trouble for Brooklyn, too. Herb Jones showcased a ton of defensive prow ess as a rookie last year and enters at 6-foot-8 with a 7-foot wingspan. If he can find ways to frustrate Durant and veteran Jonas Valciunas can control the paint, the Pelicans can win.
I'll side with the Pelicans to keep this one close and cover +2.5 (-110) on the road. As for the point total, give me under 230.5 points to be scored. New Orleans played at the 10th-slowest pace in the NBA last season and Brooklyn needs some time to gel as a core. This lines up as a defensive battle.