By Eric Jay Santos
On Wednesday, the New Orleans Pelicans took a 137-136 loss to the Dallas Mavericks. Luka Doncic was out of action for the Mavericks due to a left calf injury.
Zion Williamson registered 29 points, seven assists, and six rebounds in 28 minutes for the Pelicans. Trey Murphy III contributed 32 points, six rebounds, and four assists, while CJ McCollum and Dejounte Murray scored a combined 50 points. During the match, McCollum (629) passed Jrue Holiday (628) to become the franchise leader in three-point shots made.
For Dallas, Kyrie Irving, PJ Washington, Daniel Gafford, and Klay Thompson each scored 20+ points. Thompson and Gafford went 10-for-18 from deep range, and Washington and Gafford combined for 26 rebounds. The Mavericks made 32 second-chance points, a key aspect to the game’s dynamic.
The Mavericks entered the fourth quarter with a 97-93 lead, which increased to 115-105 after five three-pointers. The Pelicans still faced an eight-point deficit with 0:46 seconds remaining, though the squad nearly pulled off a comeback.
Murray made two free throws, then forced Thompson into a turnover before drilling a three-pointer to cut Dallas’ lead. Spencer Dinwiddie was sent to the foul line and made one of two attempts. The Pelicans were left with 11 seconds to overcome a four-point deficit, though New Orleans struggled to get a clear shot and McCollum sank a three as time expired.
New Orleans now holds a 12-36 season record. They are on a four-game losing streak.