The win marks a season-long five-game winning streak for the Pelicans, a remarkable turnaround for a franchise that struggled through a 3-22 start to the 2025-26 campaign.
Zion's Decisive Takeover
Entering the final frame trailing 87-79, New Orleans turned to Williamson to anchor their comeback. Coming off the bench in a strategic "6th man" role that has revitalized his season, Williamson exploded for 10 straight points during a critical two-minute stretch late in the fourth quarter.
With the game deadlocked at 105-103, Williamson scored on five of the Pelicans' next six possessions. His relentless attacks on the right side of the basket pushed the lead to 117-106 with just 1:37 remaining, effectively silencing a Dallas team that had led for much of the first half.
Key Pelicans Performers:
• Zion Williamson: 24 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists (10/14 FG).
• Derik Queen: 19 points and 11 rebounds, marking another strong double-double for the standout center.
• Saddiq Bey: 19 points and 7 rebounds.
• Trey Murphy III: 11 points, including two clutch free throws in the final 10 seconds to seal the result.
Davis and Thompson Shine in Losing Effort
The Mavericks were powered by a vintage performance from Anthony Davis, who dropped a season-high 35 points and 17 rebounds. Davis was nearly unstoppable in the first half, scoring 22 points to help Dallas secure a 63-57 halftime lead.
Klay Thompson provided a massive spark off the bench for Dallas, draining five of his first nine three-point attempts to finish with 20 points. Rookie sensation Cooper Flagg also contributed 16 points, but the Mavericks’ offense stalled in the fourth quarter as they were outscored 40-26.
The Road Ahead
The Pelicans (8-22) have now found the identity that eluded them early in the season, posting their longest winning streak since 2022. They will look to keep the momentum alive as they travel to face the Cleveland Cavaliers tonight.
The Mavericks (11-19), having lost three of their last four games, return home to Dallas to host the Denver Nuggets in another high-pressure Western Conference matchup.