New look Wizards outmatched by Pelicans

The new look Washington Wizards fall to the New Orleans Pelicans, 128-107 at Capital One Arena in Washington D.C.

This was the first game without Corey Kispert and CJ McCollum, as they were sent to Atlanta on January 8, 2025 for Trae Young. 

The eight win Pelicans came into Washington and dominated the game from start to finish, outscoring the opponent in every quarter. 

The lack of shot creation was evident tonight without veteran guard CJ McCollum, who averaged 18.8 points in 35 games played for Washington this season. 

Electric performances from former number one overall pick Zion Williamson and forward Trey Murphy led New Orleans throughout tonight's contest.

Williamson had 31 points on 12-for-14 shooting with a +22 while on the court, furthermore displaying why his first overall selection was worth it for New Orleans. 

Murphy one upped Williamson's performance by scoring a game high of 35 points on 13-for-24 shooting, and 7-for-16 from three. 

Washington found limited success on the offensive end, as zero players scored more than 15 points. 

Kyshawn George and Tristan Vukcevic led Washington in points with 15 each. Alex Sarr was second on the team with 14, Justin Champagnie and Tre Johnson tied for third with 12 and Bub Carrington was fourth with 11. 

George was the most efficient scorer for Washington, going 6-for-13 from the field and 3-for-6 from three in his first game back from a hip injury. His offensive skillset continues to grow and his development is being displayed on the court. 

Washington's shot making and creation lacked tonight, as the team went a combined 37-for-87 (43%) from the field and 11-for-35 (31%) from three. 

Although the loss to New Orleans was gloom, Washington will look to turn a new corner as four time All-Star Trae Young stepped foot into Capital One Arena for the first time tonight. 

The Washington Wizards organization held an introductory press conference for Young prior to the game, and the words said were encouraging. 

Young was extremely inspiring when talking about Washington's young core and what they're building.

"There's so many young guys here, and they're so mature too. As young as they are, you can see the maturity in them, like the want to learn. Some of them have been asking me some questions already…those guys are just sponges, you can tell. And they're gym rats. And to piggyback off CJ, like CJ hearing him talk about the organization earlier this season. And I mean, that was a big viral thing about how this is all changing around here. And I think, I mean, you can, for me, just being here these past 24 hours, you can tell this is a lot different than what people can from the outside may see," said Young. 

Young's debut for Washington is still unknown as he is dealing with a right quad contusion and MCL sprain. 

Washington will look to bounce back Sunday, as they are set to take on the Pheonix Suns on the road.