The reigning NBA Champions hit a slight blip in their quest for a second-straight title. In the Golden State Warriors' NBA season opener, Kevin Durant and company fell by just a point to the new look Houston Rockets. That early blemish on their record probably won't hurt their chances of contending and on Friday night they'll take out their frustrations on the new orleans Pelicans. Can Anthony Davis, DeMarcus Cousins, and company propel New Orleans to a home win? Here's the latest Warriors vs. Pelicans preview, including matchup odds, start time, TV channel, and how to watch the game live streaming online.

NBA game preview

Coming into tonight's game, the Golden State Warriors are 0-1 overall after their opening night loss to the Rockets. All-Star guard Stephen Curry had 22 points, while Kevin Durant finished with 20. Surprisingly, Nick Young is currently leading the team in scoring with 23 points per game, while Draymond Green is leading with rebounds (11) and assists (13) per game. However, Green is "doubtful" to play in Friday night's game after suffering a twisted knee in the team's first game of the season. In addition, reserve player Andre Iguodala has a strained back and is "day-to-day," while shooting guard Omri Casspi has a sprained left ankle.

The New Orleans Pelicans are also off to an 0-1 start for their latest season, but their two big men each posted double-doubles in that first game against the Memphis Grizzlies.

While Anthony Davis had 33 points and 18 boards, DeMarcus Cousins had 28 points, 10 rebounds, and seven blocked shots. No other Pelicans players beside E'twaun Moore scored in double-digits for the game, though. They'll need extra scoring help against a team as ferocious as the defending champions.

For tonight's game, the visiting Golden State Warriors are nine-point favorites on the point spread.

They also have a moneyline price of -450 compared to +350 for the underdog Pelicans. Tonight's over/under points total is 221 points for the complete game.

How to watch it live

Friday night's Warriors vs. Pelicans game is scheduled for a 9:30 p.m. Eastern Time start. Live televised game coverage is on the ESPN network. In the United States, cable and satellite subscribers with the ESPN channel can also see a live streaming game feed on the WatchESPN website or mobile apps.

For another free live streaming option, fans might consider the SlingTV service. This monthly subscription-based service offers ESPN and ESPN2 as part of their Sling Blue channel package which also includes many other channels as well. New customers can sign up for a one-week free trial of the service at the Sling.com website.
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