New Orleans Pelicans host Indiana Pacers in NBA season opener

season opener at Smoothie King Center

The NBA season kicks off on Thursday, 22 October 2026, with the New Orleans Pelicans hosting the Indiana Pacers at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. The tip-off is set for 00:00 UTC, marking the first official game for both teams this season.

standings and recent form

The Pelicans enter the game positioned first in the standings, with no games played yet in this new campaign. Their recent form from the end of last season and the preseason shows promise, having won three of their last five games. They recorded narrow wins against the Washington Wizards at home with a 107-106 scoreline on 17 October, and an away victory over the Dallas Mavericks, 101-97, on 15 October. Their only losses came in away fixtures against the Miami Heat and Minnesota Timberwolves, as well as a home loss to the Thunder. Across those five games, the Pelicans averaged 113.6 points scored per game while conceding 114.6 points on average.

The Pacers come into the match having registered just one win in their last five games. Their sole victory was a home win against the Minnesota Timberwolves, 123-112, on 7 October. However, they have suffered four losses, including tight defeats to the Milwaukee Bucks (127-128), Oklahoma City Thunder (112-114), and Atlanta Hawks (117-119). On average, the Pacers have scored 120 points per game but conceded 121.2 points over the same period, indicating a high-scoring but defensively vulnerable side.

head-to-head and matchup outlook

While specific head-to-head records between the New Orleans Pelicans and Indiana Pacers are not provided, the teams prepare to face each other with contrasting recent results. The Pelicans have demonstrated a slightly better winning ratio in recent games and seem to have a marginal edge in defensive performance. Conversely, the Pacers have shown offensive firepower but have struggled to close out matches, as seen in their narrow defeats. This game could test both teams' abilities to start the season on a positive note at the Smoothie King Center.

broadcast details

Fans in the United States can catch the game live on NBA League Pass. The broadcast will provide full coverage of the season opener, bringing all the action from New Orleans directly to viewers.

Where the teams stand

Recent form