The New Orleans Pelicans defied the odds and beat the Dallas Mavericks Tuesday night 113-111 without three of their key players in the lineup.
Brandon Ingram was placed in the NBA's concussion protocol after colliding with his teammate Naji Marshall. Zion Williamson suffered a hip bruise on a dunk attempt that was blocked by Jordan Clarkson of the Utah Jazz. And Herbert Jones who is known for his defensive presence was out with a hyperextended knee.
It did not deter the Pelican players from having a productive performance as a team. Eight players scored more than 10 points in the win over the Mavericks led by Trey Murphy III, who was perfect on the night. He produced 22 points shooting 8/8 2FG, 4/4 3FG, and 2/2 FTs.
Naji Marshall finished with 15 points, while Devonte Graham and CJ McCollum scored 14 points each. McCollum did not have his best shooting night going 6/20 from the floor. However, he dissed out 11 assists, and in the 4th Quarter, made some timely shots to help propel the Pelicans to the win.
Jonas Valanciunas and Jose Alvarado scored 13 points each, and Larry Nance Jr. along with Dyson Daniels netted 11 points.
Luka Doncic led the Mavericks with 37 points, eleven rebounds, and seven assists in a losing effort.
What Does A Win Like This Mean For The Pelicans?
The win over the Mavericks should give the Pelicans a huge amount of confidence. I'm sure no one gave the Pelicans a chance to win the matchup after hearing their star players were out due to injuries.
Even Kenny Smith, a sports commentator for NBA on TNT, said that without Williamson and Ingram, the Mavs "win by 30".
The win is no doubt a morale booster for the Pelican role players. It shows they were ready for the moment and not afraid of the bright lights. A game of that magnitude benefits them down the road if a situation like Tuesday night ever presents itself again.
It Does Not Get Any Easier For The Pelicans
In the next week and a half, the Pelicans have a tough schedule ahead of them. They will face the Suns, Clippers, Lakers, and Warriors. We will see if the Pelicans are a legit contender in the West.