In a defensive showdown, the New Orleans Pelicans (32-22) emerged victorious against the struggling Memphis Grizzlies (18-36) with a 96-87 win, marking Memphis’ ninth consecutive loss.
Herbert Jones and Brandon Ingram led the Pelicans’ offensive charge with 17 and 16 points, respectively, while Zion Williamson contributed 14 points to the victory.
Despite Memphis’ resilience, highlighted by Jaren Jackson Jr.’s 22-point performance and Yuta Watanabe’s fourth-quarter push, the Grizzlies couldn’t overcome New Orleans’ defensive prowess. Watanabe, a recent trade deadline acquisition for Memphis, scored 11 points.
While the Grizzlies mounted a late rally in the fourth quarter, trimming the Pelicans’ lead to just five points, New Orleans maintained its composure to secure the win.
The fourth quarter saw the Pelicans score just 10 points, while Memphis had 14.
