Bold takeaway: A late surge wasn’t enough to flip the outcome as the New Orleans Pelicans edged the Chicago Bulls 114-104, snapping a two-game skid but keeping both teams mired in tough stretches.
The Pelicans, who entered with a disappointing 5-22 record, secured their second win in a row thanks to key contributions from Trey Murphy III and rookie Jeremiah Fears, each finishing with 20 points. Murphy also grabbed 10 rebounds, helping New Orleans own the boards. Zion Williamson returned to action after missing five games with a right hip adductor strain, coming off the bench to contribute 18 points, including seven in the fourth quarter, and fueling the late push. Williamson logged 26 minutes and 37 seconds of court time after being cleared to play earlier in the game.
Chicago’s Coby White paced the Bulls with 20 points, while Kevin Huerter returned from a left adductor strain to chip in 16 points off the bench. Huerter’s return came as Chicago dropped to 13 losses in their last 14 games. The Bulls also struggled from the field, shooting 41.3% compared to New Orleans’ 45.7%, and Chicago was outrebounded 53-43, with the Pelicans dominating the paint 60-46.
The game swung as the Bulls erased a 13-point deficit early in the third quarter with a 16-2 run after Chicago had fallen behind. Despite Chicago grabbing a brief lead early in the fourth, New Orleans regained momentum and pulled away, culminated by Williamson’s dunk with 37 seconds remaining that sealed the win.
In context, Williamson hadn’t played since dealing with injuries period this season, and this game marked his return to the lineup in a limited capacity as he builds back peak form. The Pelicans will try to carry this momentum forward as they host Houston on Thursday.
For fans following the intra-division storyline, New Orleans has now beaten Chicago twice this season, highlighting a possible pattern of improvement for the Pelicans even amid a rough campaign.
Next up:
Pelicans at Houston Thursday.
Thought-provoking note: With Williamson’s return gradually solidifying and the squad leaning on rising contributors like Murphy III and Fears, should we recalibrate expectations for New Orleans over the second half of the season? What does this performance suggest about Chicago’s trajectory as they navigate a challenging stretch and integrate returning players like Huerter? Share your take in the comments.
