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Bulls Charge Past Pelicans in a Close Encounter at Smoothie King Center

The New Orleans Pelicans, with a 34-24 record, faced off against the Chicago Bulls, standing at 27-30. In a game that saw multiple lead changes and ties, it was the visiting Bulls who emerged victorious with a final score of 114-106 over the Pelicans.


NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - FEBRUARY 25: DeMar DeRozan #11 of the Chicago Bulls drives with the ball against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second half at the Smoothie King Center on February 25, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)

At the Smoothie King Center, fans were treated to an intense matchup. The home team put up a valiant effort but ultimately fell short. The Pelicans showcased their scoring ability from beyond the arc with an impressive 39 percent three-point shooting rate, sinking 16 shots from downtown. Their offensive rebounds matched those of their opponents at 12 each, contributing to second-chance points which totaled 14 for the home team.


Despite trailing behind in fast break points by eight and committing more turnovers (19), the Pelicans managed to keep pace through sheer determination and skillful playmaking. They dished out a total of 25 assists and blocked seven shots defensively throughout the contest.


NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 25: Coby White #0 of the Chicago Bulls shoots the ball during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on February 25, 2024 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Layne Murdoch Jr./NBAE via Getty Images)

The Bulls' performance was marked by their ability to capitalize on turnovers, scoring 19 points off these opportunities. They also dominated in bench scoring with an additional contribution of 19 points compared to the Pelican's bench output. Chicago's efficiency on free throws was notable as they made good on an outstanding 90 percent of their attempts from the line.


A key factor in this game was Chicago's ability to maintain control during crucial moments; they led for over twenty-one minutes while New Orleans held onto it for nearly nineteen minutes and thirty-five seconds. The largest lead by either team did not exceed twelve points indicating how closely contested this game truly was.


NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - FEBRUARY 25: DeMar DeRozan #11 of the Chicago Bulls drives with the ball against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second half at the Smoothie King Center on February 25, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)

As both teams fought hard on court, it became evident that every possession would count towards building momentum or staging comebacks – which happened frequently given there were sixteen lead changes throughout this nail-biter of a match-up.


Looking ahead after this tough loss at home, New Orleans fans can catch their next game when they visit Madison Square Garden to take on the New York Knicks scheduled for February 27th at 7:30 PM Eastern Time. This upcoming encounter will be broadcasted live on MSG network as well as WVUE-TV for local viewers eager to support their team from afar.

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