ORLANDO — As the NBA preseason draws to a close, the New Orleans Pelicans showcased their potential, overpowering the Orlando Magic104-92 at the Amway Center. The synergy between the Pelicans’ dynamic duo, Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson, was palpable. The pair teamed up to score a joint 34 points, posing significant challenges for Orlando’s defense.
The atmosphere was electric as the game commenced, with both teams going toe-to-toe in a fierce competition. However, as the second half began, there was a perceptible drop in intensity. Coaches on both sides started to rotate their lineups, giving bench players more minutes. This resulted in a slight dip in the game’s quality.
Orlando’s starting five, consisting of Markelle Fultz, Jalen Suggs, Franz Wagner, Paolo Banchero, and Wendell Carter Jr., saw limited action on the court, each clocking in just under 20 minutes. Wagner was the standout performer for the Magic, registering a game-high 19 points.
The game’s turning point came in the dying minutes of the fourth quarter. The Magic, trailing 91-90 with under 4 minutes remaining, seemed poised to mount a comeback. However, the Pelicans quickly quashed their hopes with a decisive 9-0 run, effectively sealing the game.
Praise should be heaped on the Pelicans’ bench, who rose to the occasion in the second half. Their solid performance on both ends of the court was instrumental in securing the victory. Center Trey Jemison stood out, posting 10 points and grabbing 9 rebounds, while guards Jalen Crutcher, Kira Lewis Jr, and Malcolm Hill combined for a commendable 30 points.
Despite a rocky preseason, with the Pelicans holding a 1-3 record, this victory offers a glimmer of hope as they gear up for the regular season. The team is now setting its sights on its season opener against the Memphis Grizzlies, eager to carry forward the momentum from this morale-boosting win.
