The LA Clippers vs New Orleans Pelicans timeline may not be the oldest in NBA history, but it’s one of the most intriguing modern rivalries. What makes this matchup special is how both teams have developed unique identities — the Clippers, historically overlooked, became title contenders in the 2020s, while the Pelicans have built a young, gritty roster around exciting stars like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram.
Over the past two decades, their head-to-head games have grown in intensity and importance. With rising talent on both ends and Western Conference standings often at stake, Clippers vs Pelicans games are no longer just regular season matchups — they’re must-watch events with real consequences. This rivalry continues to evolve as new players step in and playoff dreams hang in the balance each season.
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All-Time Head-to-Head Record
Before diving into individual games, it’s important to understand the overall win-loss picture between these two teams. The New Orleans Pelicans lead the series, having won more games against the LA Clippers, especially during the late 2010s and early 2020s.
Their all-time record as of April 2025 stands at:
| Detail | Clippers | Pelicans |
|---|---|---|
| Total Games Played | 79 | 79 |
| Wins | 34 | 45 |
| Longest Win Streak | 6 (Clippers) | 14 (Pelicans) |
| Largest Win Margin | 32 points (Clippers) | 28 points (Pelicans) |
This performance chart highlights how Pelicans have often dominated, but the Clippers bounced back with important victories in the 2022–25 stretch, especially when star players were healthy and on form.
| Matchup Stat | Clippers | Pelicans |
|---|---|---|
| 2024–25 Season Series | Won 2 games | Won 1 game |
| Most Recent Win | April 2, 2025 (114–98) | March 11, 2025 (127–120) |
Season-by-Season Matchups
Understanding the season-by-season performance in the LA Clippers vs New Orleans Pelicans timeline reveals how the rivalry has shifted. In early years, neither team was dominant, but from 2017 onward, the Pelicans gained momentum, thanks in part to breakout performances and solid defense. Meanwhile, the Clippers’ identity changed dramatically with the arrival of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George.
From 2020 to 2025, the matchups were extremely close. Each game felt like a chess battle with playoff implications. Coaches adjusted strategies season by season, and player health became a key factor. Some years, the Pelicans swept the series; other seasons, the Clippers rebounded with authority. Let’s look at how recent seasons played out:
| Season | Clippers Wins | Pelicans Wins | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020–21 | 1 | 2 | Zion’s breakout performances |
| 2021–22 | 2 | 1 | Clippers controlled tempo |
| 2022–23 | 0 | 3 | Pelicans clean sweep |
| 2023–24 | 1 | 2 | Pelicans strong home presence |
| 2024–25 | 2 | 1 | Clippers dominate with depth |
These back-and-forth seasons have only added to the drama. Each matchup is now seen as a crucial test, especially when playoff seeds are involved.
Player Impact: Stars Who Shaped the Rivalry
The LA Clippers vs New Orleans Pelicans timeline would be incomplete without discussing the impact of star players. These games have often turned on the performances of a few key individuals. For the Clippers, Kawhi Leonard and Paul George brought elite two-way play, while Russell Westbrook added spark and pace in clutch games. On the Pelicans’ side, Zion Williamson became a matchup nightmare, combining speed and power that very few teams could handle.
Equally important were supporting stars like Brandon Ingram, CJ McCollum, and Jonas Valančiūnas for the Pelicans, and Ivica Zubac, Norman Powell, and Terrence Mann for the Clippers. These matchups saw multiple 30+ point nights, buzzer-beaters, and defensive showcases.
Top Individual Performances (2020–2025):
- Zion Williamson: 37 points, 12 rebounds (March 2023)
- Kawhi Leonard: 31 points, 5 steals (Dec 2024)
- Brandon Ingram: 28 points, 8 assists (March 2022)
- Paul George: 34 points, 6 threes (April 2025)
These performances didn’t just entertain—they defined the course of the rivalry.
Statistical Comparison
When breaking down the Clippers vs Pelicans statistics, it becomes clear that styles of play are quite different. The Clippers focus on half-court offense and solid perimeter shooting, while the Pelicans thrive in transition and dominate in the paint with physical play. These contrasting styles lead to unpredictable results.
Here’s a look at some core team stats averaged across their most recent 10 matchups:
| Statistic | Clippers | Pelicans |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Points/Game | 109.4 | 112.1 |
| Field Goal % | 46.8% | 48.3% |
| 3PT % | 37.2% | 35.6% |
| Rebounds/Game | 41.3 | 44.7 |
| Turnovers/Game | 13.2 | 12.0 |
These numbers show how close and competitive these games have been. Even slight variations in shooting or ball handling can decide the winner.
Memorable Moments and Highlights
Several unforgettable games have shaped the LA Clippers vs New Orleans Pelicans timeline. Fans remember buzzer-beaters, comeback wins, and emotional crowd reactions. One of the most iconic was the Pelicans’ dramatic 119–117 win in 2022, when Ingram hit a fadeaway jumper at the buzzer. Another was in 2025, when the Clippers erased a 16-point deficit to win 114–98 in front of a roaring home crowd.
Top 3 Memorable Games:
- March 11, 2025 – Pelicans 127, Clippers 120
Zion and Ingram combined for 60 points in a clutch road win. - April 2, 2025 – Clippers 114, Pelicans 98
Paul George dominates in a playoff-like atmosphere. - Dec 30, 2024 – Clippers 116, Pelicans 113
Westbrook’s fast break steal seals the game.
These matchups often feel like previews of the playoffs, and fans circle them on the calendar each season.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the future of the Clippers vs Pelicans rivalry appears even more exciting. With younger players like Trey Murphy III, Dyson Daniels, and Bones Hyland stepping up, these teams are preparing for long-term success. The Clippers may see a shift as aging stars are gradually replaced, while the Pelicans’ young core continues to grow.
The NBA schedule for 2025–26 already includes three head-to-head games, all expected to be nationally televised. Analysts predict at least one playoff encounter in the next two years, especially as both teams hover around the top 6 in the West.
Expect more fireworks, more grit, and possibly a playoff series that fans have long waited for.
Final Words: The Significance of the Clippers-Pelicans Matchups
The LA Clippers vs New Orleans Pelicans timeline tells more than just a story of wins and losses. It reflects how two growing franchises shaped themselves through battles on the court. Every game between them brings drama, excitement, and playoff tension—even in the regular season.
These games push both teams to evolve. Whether it’s adjusting defense to stop Zion or finding matchups that neutralize PG13, coaches and players are constantly refining their approach. As the NBA continues to change, one thing’s for sure: the Clippers and Pelicans will keep delivering thrilling basketball for years to come.
FAQs About LA Clippers vs New Orleans Pelicans Timeline
1. Who leads the all-time series between Clippers and Pelicans?
The Pelicans lead the series with 45 wins to the Clippers’ 34 as of April 2025.
2. Have the Clippers and Pelicans ever met in the playoffs?
No, they haven’t met in the playoffs yet. But fans are hoping it happens soon.
3. Who are the top scorers in their recent matchups?
Zion Williamson and Paul George are often the leading scorers when these teams play.
4. What was the most exciting game between them?
The 2022 game where Ingram hit a buzzer-beater to win 119–117 is a fan favorite.
5. When is their next scheduled matchup?
Their next clash is expected in late 2025 during the first half of the NBA season.
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