Pelicans’ odds vs. Heat in CJ McCollum’s debut in New Orleans

Fans of the New Orleans Pelicans won’t have to wait long to see CJ McCollum in the lineup, as he will make his debut in the Smoothie King center tonight vs. the Miami Heat.

McCollum was eager to join his new teammates, who have won four in a row and are currently in the 10th spot in the Western Conference after passing McCollum’s former team.

Brandon Ingram has been playing like an All-Star even though he wasn’t chosen as one and Jaxson Hayes has been thriving of late in an increased role.

McCollum hasn’t had much time with his new team, but if ever there was a guy who could make a seamless transition it is him, as he is a veteran who knows his role and should slide effortlessly into the starting lineup.

The Pelicans will have their work cut out for them if they want to keep their steak alive, as Miami is the best team in the Eastern Conference.

The Pelicans will still be missing Zion Williamson obviously and will be without newly-acquired Larry Nance Jr. for at least six weeks, so they will need some other guys to step up.

Tyler Herro is listed as probable for the Heat, who should be at full strength.

New Orleans Pelicans vs. Miami Heat: Odds, spread, over/under and best bets

According to WynnBET, the Pelicans are 4.5 point underdogs at home against the Heat.

The Pels have been much better at home but the Heat are no slouch on the road, so this line makes sense, especially with the Pelicans trying to adjust with McCollum and without Josh Hart.

There are good vibes around the Pelicans right now and I expect the energy to be through the roof at SKC, so I would take the Pelicans to cover those points and hope they keep it close.

The money lines are set at +155 for the Pelicans and -190 for the Heat. If you think the Pels can win this game, just bet the money line and get the better odds, but I think it is still a long shot bet against a very good Miami team.

The over/under is 217, which seems a touch high given that these two teams combine for 214 on average and have both been playing well defensively.

I’d take the points and the under in this one and hope for a tight, low-scoring game and a New Orleans win.

Brandon Ingram is still the best play in daily fantasy, especially as McCollum tries to adjust to his new team.

The Pels are going to be relying a lot more on Jaxson Hayes for quality minutes and he has been racking up the stats lately. He’s my current value play in daily fantasy, so get in on it now before his price goes up with his minutes.

How to watch Pelicans vs. Heat

The game vs. Miami has a weird tip-off time of 6:30 PM CT, so eat your dinner early. You can watch on Bally Sports New Orleans or listen on ESPN 100.3 FM.