In a commanding performance, the New Orleans Pelicans soared past the Houston Rockets with a decisive 127-105 victory, marking their eighth win in the last nine games. Despite the absence of star player Brandon Ingram due to illness, the Pelicans showcased their depth and resilience. Zion Williamson led the charge with an impressive tally of 27 points and 10 assists, highlighting his versatile playmaking skills. CJ McCollum‘s 28 points and Jonas Valanciunas’ double-double of 20 points and 14 rebounds further fueled the team’s dominant display.
The Pelicans established a solid lead by halftime and expanded it to a 29-point margin in the second half, underscoring their offensive talents and defensive tenacity. For the struggling Rockets, who have now lost six of their last seven games, Alperen Sengun and rookie Amen Thompson provided some resistance with 20 and 22 points, respectively.
The game, which was the final regular-season meeting between these Southwest Division rivals, also had its moments of intensity, with officials having to intervene in a fourth-quarter altercation. This victory not only secured a series tie with the Rockets at 2-2 but also highlighted the Pelicans’ formidable lineup and strategic depth, even in the absence of key players.
