The New Orleans Pelicans have lost all the momentum that they gained during their five-game win streak as they just suffered their third straight loss and second in a row to the Phoenix Suns, falling 123-114 on Saturday night.
Once again, they actually kept the game within reach for a lot of the game and had the Suns lead down to just three with about four minutes left in the game. They had kept Devin Booker to an inefficient night from the field.
However, a late defensive collapse led to Booker hitting some shots to keep the game out of reach. The Pelicans also couldn't get a make of their own when they needed it. It was a frustrating watch where New Orleans always felt like they were just about to get back into it. They were never able make that final push, though.
The two most entertaining moments of this game were at halftime when Po-Boy Powerhouse won the baby race and when Jose Alvarado got ejected for connecting with a punch on Mark Williams (who also got ejected).
Derik Queen had a nice game for his 21st birthday, finishing with 21 points, 11 rebounds, three assists, a steal and a block. It was a bounce-back game for both he and Jeremiah Fears, who both struggled in the first game against Phoenix. Fears had 18 points, eight rebounds, two assists, and a block.
The best takeaway from this game for the Pelicans is that they should absolutely keep Zion Williamson coming off the bench for as long as possible. This was the second night of a back-to-back and Williamson played 29 minutes. He was great in those minutes as well with 22 points on 8-of-11 from the field.
Having him fresh for these games is crucial. He can have an impact when needed and is being kept off the injury report. As long as this is working, they should keep doing it.
New Orleans will return to the court on Monday night against the New York Knicks in what should be a far tougher matchup than the Suns.