Bold takeaway: Jordan Poole’s return fuels a Pelicans blowout as they finally snap a tough losing streak. But here’s where it gets controversial: does a single win over a depleted opponent truly prove the team’s turnaround, or does it highlight how injuries are masking real gaps?
The New Orleans Pelicans topped the short-handed Portland Trail Blazers 143-120, arenning a much-needed win as Poole came back from a left quadriceps injury that kept him out for 18 games. Poole poured in 22 points in his return, providing a spark for a team that had dropped seven straight games prior to this victory.
Trey Murphy III led the way with 24 points, and Bryce McGowens connected on all five of his 3-point attempts, finishing with a career-high-tying 23 points on 8-for-11 shooting. New Orleans also received solid contributions from multiple players, helping offset a lingering inconsistency that has followed them since the coaching change earlier in the season.
Poole’s return, paired with a balanced attack, helped the Pelicans set a franchise-record 86 points in the paint and have six players reach 15 or more points, including rookies Jeremiah Fears (19) and Derik Queen (17). The victory marked just the second win since head coach Willie Green was relieved of his duties and replaced by James Borrego on Nov. 15, highlighting a potential shift in the team’s approach and leadership dynamics.
For Portland, Shaedon Sharpe scored 21 points, but the Blazers were limited by depth, fielding only 10 players. Sidy Cissoko added 20, while Jerami Grant and Deni Avdija each chipped in 16. The result underscored the challenges of sustaining effort with a thinner rotation, especially against a motivated opponent in New Orleans.
Additional context from around the league:
- Bucks 116, Celtics 101: Milwaukee rallied without Giannis Antetokounmpo, led by Kyle Kuzma’s season-best 31 and Bobby Portis’s 27 and 10. The Bucks seized control late, opening the fourth with an 8-2 run.
- Rockets 115, Clippers 113: Amen Thompson’s late heroics sealed a comeback win for Houston, including a drive to the rim and a crucial and-1 after an offensive rebound scramble.
- Nuggets 136, Kings 105: Nikola Jokic dominated with 36 points, 12 rebounds, and eight assists as Denver cruised to a fourth straight win, with Peyton Watson and Cameron Johnson providing strong support off the bench.
Bottom line: The Pelicans’ win showcases the potential of their updated lineup and Poole’s return, but observers will watch closely to see if this performance was a sign of real improvement or a favorable matchup against a thin opponent. How do you interpret New Orleans’ trajectory after this game: are they back on track, or are there still fundamental questions to be answered? Share your thoughts in the comments.
