In a thrilling Thursday night showdown, the New Orleans Pelicans, despite missing their star Zion Williamson, showcased a dominant performance against the Cleveland Cavaliers, cruising to a 123-104 victory. Trey Murphy III, stepping up in Williamson’s absence, delivered an exceptional performance, scoring 28 points and becoming the linchpin for the Pelicans’ success.
Williamson, sidelined due to illness, was a notable absence for the Pelicans, who have been grappling with a flu outbreak affecting the team. However, Murphy, starting for the first time this season, rose to the occasion splendidly. His six 3-pointers were crucial in compensating for Williamson’s absence, contributing significantly to the Pelicans’ fifth win in six games. Alongside Murphy, CJ McCollum and Brandon Ingram added 18 and 17 points respectively, maintaining the offensive momentum. Jonas Valanciunas and Herb Jones, despite not being in peak condition, showed commendable resilience, contributing 13 and 7 points each. Coach Green lauded their toughness, acknowledging their commitment despite health challenges.
The Cavaliers, on the other hand, faced their own set of challenges, missing their top three scorers – Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Evan Mobley. This trio, which averages a combined 63 points, left a noticeable void in the Cavaliers’ lineup. Mitchell, a four-time All-Star, missed his second consecutive game due to illness, while Garland and Mobley are sidelined with injuries until at least February. The Cavaliers, though trailing by 14 at halftime, managed to narrow the gap to four points in the third quarter. However, the Pelicans responded with a decisive 14-0 run, effectively sealing the game. Cleveland’s Sam Merrill, following a career-high performance, couldn’t replicate his success due to a wrist issue.
The Pelicans, demonstrating remarkable depth and resilience, closed the third quarter with a strong lead and further extended it in the fourth, highlighting their ability to maintain intensity throughout the game. This victory sets a positive tone for their upcoming five-game homestand, starting with a match against Houston on Saturday night. The team’s ability to perform exceptionally well, even in the absence of key players, sends a strong message about their depth and determination, making them a formidable force in the league.
