Warriors Face Pelicans in New Orleans Amid Significant Injury Crisis
NEW ORLEANS, February 24, 2026 – The Golden State Warriors travel to the Smoothie King Center tonight to face the New Orleans Pelicans in a matchup defined by a depleted visitor roster. With tip-off scheduled for 7:00 PM CT, both teams are navigating critical absences, though the Warriors enter as the historical favorites despite missing their core stars.
Game Preview: A Battle of Attrition
The Golden State Warriors (2-0 against New Orleans this season) arrive in Louisiana looking to extend their dominance over a struggling Pelicans squad that currently holds a 16-42 record. However, the narrative of tonight’s game has shifted entirely toward the training room. The Warriors will be without Stephen Curry (knee), Kristaps Porzingis (illness), and Jimmy Butler (ACL). Furthermore, Draymond Green is listed as out with back soreness, leaving the Golden State rotation severely thin.
The Pelicans are coming off a 126-111 victory against the Philadelphia 76ers last Saturday, a game where former Warrior Jordan Poole led the way with 23 points. While New Orleans welcomes back Dejounte Murray, they remain without Trey Murphy III and Yves Missi. Despite their poor season record, the Pelicans face a Golden State team missing nearly all of its primary scoring and defensive anchors.
Key Facts
| Category | Data |
|---|---|
| Regular Season Head-to-Head | 80 Games Played |
| Warriors Total Wins | 52 |
| Pelicans Total Wins | 28 |
| 2025-26 Season Series | Warriors lead 2-0 |
| Last Meeting Result | Warriors 104, Pelicans 96 (Nov 29, 2025) |
Injury Report: February 24, 2026
Golden State Warriors
- Stephen Curry: Out (Right Knee)
- Jimmy Butler: Out (Torn Right ACL)
- Kristaps Porzingis: Out (Illness)
- Draymond Green: Out (Back Soreness)
New Orleans Pelicans
- Trey Murphy III: Out (Shoulder)
- Yves Missi: Out (Calf)
- Micah Peavy: Out
- Hunter Dickinson: Out
- Dejounte Murray: Available/Returning
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the Warriors vs. Pelicans game start?
The game is scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM CT (5:00 PM PT) on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
Where is the game being played?
The matchup will take place at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Who won the last game between these two teams?
The Golden State Warriors defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 104-96 on November 29, 2025.
Is Stephen Curry playing tonight?
No, Stephen Curry has been ruled out for tonight’s game due to a right knee injury.
What is the Pelicans’ current season record?
The New Orleans Pelicans enter the game with a record of 16 wins and 42 losses.