New Orleans Pelicans dominate Indiana Pacers, extending win streak to four with a dominant offensive showcase and Zion Williamson's stellar performance.
The New Orleans Pelicans have extended their win streak to four games after cruising to a 128-110 victory over the Indiana Pacers. It was another step to proving that this team really is different as they move into 7-22.
Saturday night's game presented the Pelicans with a new opportunity. After three hard-fought wins in a row as underdogs, New Orleans was favored to win this game. It's an injury-riddled Pacers team that hasn't been playing good basketball.
The Pelicans answered the call and looked how they were supposed to look. This was never really a close game. James Borrego has transformed this team, and they are now oozing with confidence.
New Orleans shot well enough from the field, won the rebound game and hit their free throws. Indiana had 43/19/69 shooting splits as a team; there's not much more to ask for on the surface level.
This was one of the best games of the year for Zion Williamson. Unsurprisingly, it came when he actually started to get a whistle at the rim. Williamson finished tied for his season-high with 29 points. He added seven rebounds and an assists with a steal. He shot 11-of-13 from the charity stripe.
Williamson coming off the bench has been great for this team. It allows Borrego to dole out his minutes more creatively and keeps him fresh for when the team really needs him. It's unclear just how long it'll remain, but there's no reason to do anything different right now.
The 25-year-old seems to be handling the move well, props to him. It's not easy for a team's superstar to handle such a big change.
This was also a fantastic night for Derik Queen, who was circled before the game as someone to watch against a weak defensive front court.
Queen was a perfect 8-for-8 from the field with 17 points and 10 rebounds with four assists to go with it. He also finally hit another three-pointer, entering the game 2-for-20 on the year.
Herb Jones left the game early after taking a shot to the face. It's currently unclear how impactful of an injury it will be, ultimately. That will be the biggest thing to watch after this game.
New Orleans will close out this home stand on Monday night against the Dallas Mavericks. That's another game that the Pelicans will have a chance to win, as the Mavericks are just 3-8 on the road this year.