CJ McCollum scored 40 points for New Orleans

CJ McCollum is expected to lead the New Orleans Pelicans as they face the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday night. McCollum recently scored 40 points in a close loss to the Detroit Pistons. The Pelicans have struggled this season, sitting at 19 wins and 53 losses. The Pelicans have a 12-23 record at home. They rank fourth in the Western Conference for fast break points, averaging 16.5 per game. Their leading scorer, Trey Murphy III, adds 4.2 points in fast breaks. On the other hand, the 76ers have an 11-26 road record and allow 115.7 points per game. New Orleans has a shooting percentage of 45.3% this season. This is lower than the 49.0% the 76ers allow to opponents. Philadelphia averages 12.8 made 3-pointers per game. They fall short of the 14.7 that the Pelicans allow. In the last ten games, the Pelicans are 2-8, scoring an average of 107.6 points per game. Meanwhile, the 76ers also stand at 2-8, with an average of 116.5 points. Both teams struggle defensively, allowing high scores from their opponents. Injury updates include several key players for both teams. For the Pelicans, Brandon Boston Jr., Trey Murphy III, and Herbert Jones are out for the season. Zion Williamson is day to day. The 76ers have multiple injuries as well, with Joel Embiid and Paul George sidelined for the season. The matchup is set for 8 p.m. EDT, and New Orleans is favored by 6.5 points according to betting lines.