The Clippers have spent the opening week of the season searching for a turning point, and Sunday night gives them a bright stage to find one. New Orleans arrives in Los Angeles after scoring 135 points in a one-point win over Memphis, then falling 115-109 to Minnesota. As of Friday’s games, the Pelicans were 4-5 and the Clippers were 1-7. That makes this more than an early-November matchup: it is a chance for Los Angeles to stop a skid and for New Orleans to prove its attack can travel.

The Pelicans bring the louder offense. They average 120.2 points per game, using strong shooting and quick pressure to keep defenses moving. Zion Williamson is the engine. He scores 20.6 points per game while making nearly 60 percent of his shots, which shows how often he gets close to the basket. His power can pull defenders inward, opening room for teammates on the outside.

Dejounte Murray adds another important layer. The long guard can carry the ball, set up teammates, and swipe passes on defense. His 2.2 steals per game help New Orleans create extra possessions. Trey Murphy III, listed as probable with a knee issue, gives the Pelicans a tall wing who can shoot from deep, drive past a rushing defender, and finish near the rim. If he plays, his movement without the ball can make Zion’s job easier.

The Clippers need Darius Garland to steer the game with calm and spark. Garland averages 20.9 points and 6.6 assists, and his quick handle lets him dart into the lane or set up a teammate. Los Angeles shoots a strong 38.2 percent from three-point range, so Garland’s passes to open shooters could be a major answer against New Orleans’ packed-in defense.

Yet the Clippers must protect the ball. Their 20.1 turnovers per game give opponents too many fast-break chances, while the Pelicans average 11.8 steals. That is a dangerous meeting point. Los Angeles also needs more help on the glass, where New Orleans has a rebounding edge. Isaiah Jackson can change that picture with hard runs, lob finishes, and active work around the hoop.

Brandon Ingram is listed out with an Achilles injury, removing a tall scorer who could shoot over smaller defenders. That puts more weight on Garland and on forwards such as Rui Hachimura. Veteran center Brook Lopez can stretch the floor with his long-range shot, while also protecting the paint against Zion’s drives.

This game may turn on pace. The Pelicans want to race forward after stops, while the Clippers need organized possessions and clean passes. New Orleans has shown more balance so far, and Zion gives it the strongest inside force on the court. Prediction: The Pelicans win, but Garland gives the Clippers a real chance to make it tense late.

Zion Williamson Brings the Pelicans’ Fast Start to Los Angeles