When people ask what time do the pelicans play, they are usually thinking about New Orleans NBA games, travel plans, or broadcast windows. Understanding the typical schedule helps fans coordinate tickets, transit, and watch parties around the team.
Below is a quick reference that captures key timing details for planning around Pelicans games and related events.
| Season Period | Typical Game Start Time | Tipoff Example Dates | Broadcasters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preseason | 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM local | Oct 10–20 | Local TV, Team App |
| Regular Season | 7:30 PM or 8:00 PM local | Oct 15–Apr 14 | Fox, Bally, Select NBC |
| Play-In & Playoffs | 8:00 PM or 8:30 PM local | Apr 20–Jun | ESPN, TNT, ABC |
| Day Games | 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM local | Select Sat & Sun | Regional Sports Net |
Game Day Arrival and Doors Open Timing
For in-person attendance at the Smoothie King Center, doors typically open around two hours before tipoff. Arriving early gives fans time to navigate parking, security, and concession lines, especially for popular matchups.
Security lines can vary based on event popularity, so planning ahead is essential. Fans are encouraged to check the schedule in advance for exact opening times on holidays or special themed nights.
Tipoff is usually scheduled for 7:30 PM or 8:00 PM local time, though prime nationally televised games may start at 8:00 PM or 8:30 PM. These windows affect when you should aim to arrive to secure good seating and avoid rush crowds.
Television and Streaming Windows
Broadcast windows for Pelicans games depend on whether the contest is on local television, regional networks, or national cable. Most regular season games air on Fox Sports New Orleans, Bally Sports Southeast, or select NBC affiliates.
National games appear on ESPN, TNT, NBA TV, or ABC, each with their own scheduled airtimes. Streaming via the Team App or league partners often mirrors these windows, but blackout rules may apply depending on location.
Travel and Parking Considerations
Game day traffic around the Smoothie King Center can build well before tipoff, particularly for evening contests. Public transit options, rideshares, and pre-booked parking passes can reduce stress and ensure timely arrival.
Weekend games and holiday matchups tend to fill lots faster, so arriving extra early is recommended. Checking traffic alerts and parking maps ahead of time helps fans choose the most efficient route and entry point.
Injury Updates and Schedule Changes
Injury reports and lineup changes can shift fan expectations, but they rarely alter official game times. However, television appearances and nationally televised windows may adjust if the schedule shifts due to weather or arena conflicts.
Staying connected via team social channels, the league site, or trusted news sources ensures you receive real-time updates on start times, broadcast changes, or pregame ceremonies.
Key Takeaways for Pelicans Game Timing
- Regular season games typically start at 7:30 PM or 8:00 PM local time.
- Day games are rare and usually scheduled for 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM local time.
- Playoff games often begin at 8:00 PM or 8:30 PM local time.
- Doors open roughly two hours before tipoff for in-person attendees.
- Check TV and streaming windows in advance to avoid missing broadcast details.
- Plan for extra travel time on weekends and holiday dates.
- Monitor official channels for any last-minute schedule or broadcast changes.
FAQ
Reader questions
What time do the pelicans usually play on weeknights during the regular season?
Most regular season games during the week tip off at 7:30 PM or 8:00 PM local time, with occasional daytime slots on select weekends.
Are Pelicans games shown on national TV, and do the times vary?
Yes, national broadcasts on ESPN, TNT, NBA TV, or ABC may push start times to 8:00 PM or 8:30 PM and often have wider broadcast reach.
Do the start times change during the playoffs or play-in tournament?
Playoff and play-in games often begin later in the evening, typically at 8:00 PM or 8:30 PM local time, depending on the round and network coverage.
How early should I arrive if I plan to attend a Pelicans game in person?
Doors usually open about two hours before tipoff, and arriving at least 45 minutes earlier is wise for popular matchups or holiday games.