The Portland Trail Blazers notched their first win of the season with a dominant 125-103 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday, powered by standout performances from Jerami Grant and Anfernee Simons. Grant posted a game-high 28 points, while Simons added 27 points and six assists, helping Portland bounce back from a close loss to New Orleans on Friday.
The Blazers took control after an early 8-0 run by the Pelicans, responding with a strong second-quarter push that gave them a 59-47 lead at halftime. Portland extended its lead to as many as 24 points in the second half, securing a comfortable margin to close out the game.
Portland’s rebounding dominance was key, as the team outperformed New Orleans 51-39 on the boards, including a 22-15 advantage in offensive rebounds. Center Deandre Ayton contributed significantly, tallying a double-double with 17 points and 12 rebounds, while Donovan Clingan, a rookie, made a defensive impact with two blocks on Zion Williamson in the first half.
The Pelicans struggled from beyond the arc, hitting just 1-of-13 three-pointers in the first half compared to Portland’s 8-of-22. CJ McCollum led New Orleans with 27 points, but the team lacked the scoring support needed to keep up with Portland’s offensive surge. Brandon Ingram and Williamson each contributed 14 points but could not break through Portland’s defense, with Williamson shooting just 3-of-12 from the field.
