The New Orleans Pelicans acquired Dejounte Murray in the offseason to enhance their late-game performance. Despite Murray’s fractured hand sidelining him for four to six weeks, the team has shown improvement in closing games.
Last season, the Pelicans were 0-24 in games where they trailed at the end of the third quarter. On Friday, facing a nine-point deficit entering the fourth quarter in Portland, they rallied to beat the Trail Blazers 105-103. Brandon Ingram hit a tie-breaking jumper with 4.9 seconds left, and Herbert Jones and Zion Williamson defended Anfernee Simons’ last-second layup attempt to secure the win.
In Murray’s absence, second-year guard Jordan Hawkins stepped up, scoring 24 points, with 22 coming in the second half and 15 in the final quarter. His sharp shooting helped the Pelicans overcome an off-night for Williamson, who contributed 16 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists despite making just 4 of 15 shots.
The Blazers, despite blowing a 16-point lead, played better than in their 140-104 loss to Golden State. Jerami Grant led Portland with 34 points, making a career-high eight 3-pointers.
The teams will meet again on Sunday afternoon in Portland for a rematch, where both will aim to improve and build on their recent performances.
