The New Orleans Pelicans edged the Chicago Bulls 119-113 on Tuesday night, fueled by Trey Murphy III’s 32-point performance. Murphy, despite shooting just 2-for-13 from beyond the arc, went a perfect 12-for-12 at the free-throw line.

Zion Williamson contributed 21 points, seven rebounds, and nine assists in his third game back following a left hamstring strain and suspension. The Pelicans improved their record to 9-32, winning four of their last seven games.

Murphy’s scoring was crucial, particularly in the second half when the Pelicans overcame early struggles. New Orleans shot just 36.5% in the first half but turned it around with 52.3% shooting after the break, including 10 three-pointers.

The Bulls, now 18-22, saw Zach LaVine recover from a quiet first half to finish with 25 points. Nikola Vucevic added 22 points and 15 rebounds, while Coby White chipped in 22 points.

New Orleans received key bench contributions from Jose Alvarado, who scored 12 points on 4-for-8 shooting, and Jordan Hawkins, who added nine points. The Pelicans’ reserves outscored the Bulls’ bench 39-29, proving pivotal in the victory.

The Bulls dominated the glass, outrebounding the Pelicans 57-46, with Vucevic leading the charge. However, turnovers were costly for Chicago, as they committed 15 compared to New Orleans’ 10.

This win keeps the Pelicans’ faint playoff hopes alive, while the Bulls remain in the thick of the Eastern Conference race despite the setback.