by Rell Wright/Pelican Contributor

The New Orleans Pelicans delivered a resounding 124-114 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers, who were notably missing their All-Star center, Joel Embiid. The Pelicans’ Zion Williamson was the undeniable star of the show, pouring in an impressive 33 points to lead his team to victory. Embiid’s absence presented a significant challenge for the 76ers, as they had to navigate the game without their leading scorer. Despite this setback, veteran guard CJ McCollum made a triumphant return to the lineup after a 12-game absence due to a partially collapsed lung, contributing 20 points in just 28 minutes.

The Pelicans’ balanced attack proved to be the key to their success, with Jonas Valanciunas notching 19 points, Jordan Hawkins adding 16, and Brandon Ingram chipping in with 15. On the other side, Tyrese Maxey stepped up admirably for the 76ers, matching Zion Williamson‘s 33 points, while De’Anthony Melton contributed 17. This thrilling matchup showcased the resilience and depth of both teams, even in the absence of key players.

Looking ahead, the Pelicans will be seeking to maintain their winning momentum as they host the struggling San Antonio Spurs (3-14) on Friday night. With Zion Williamson leading the charge and a well-rounded squad at their disposal, the Pelicans are poised to make waves in the competitive landscape of the NBA this season.