New Orleans Pelicans Large Favorite (-7.5+) Betting Trend

The Pelicans' struggles as heavy favorites stem from a franchise identity crisis that has persisted through multiple roster iterations. This organization has rarely possessed the veteran leadership and championship mentality required to consistently dominate inferior opponents. When laying significant points, New Orleans often falls into the trap of playing down to competition, lacking the killer instinct that separates elite teams from pretenders. The psychological burden of expectation weighs heavily on a franchise that has historically underachieved. Players who excel in underdog roles suddenly face pressure to control games wire-to-wire, exposing weaknesses in late-game execution and defensive intensity. The Pelicans' young core, while talented, lacks the championship pedigree needed to maintain focus against teams with nothing to lose. Situational factors compound these issues. Heavy favorites often face opponents playing their best basketball, motivated by the opportunity to upset a superior team. New Orleans has consistently struggled with these "trap game" scenarios, particularly when facing teams on extended road trips or playing back-to-back situations where desperation breeds competitive fire. Smart bettors should target New Orleans as large home favorites against struggling road teams, where the motivation gap creates the most dangerous betting spots.