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New Orleans Pelicans Fall Short in Home Standoff with Orlando Magic

The New Orleans Pelicans and the Orlando Magic clashed in a competitive matchup that ended with the scoreboard reading 117-108. Both teams entered the game with identical records of 45-31, but it was the Magic who emerged victorious, extending their winning tally.


LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 24: Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans looks on during the game against the LA Clippers during the In-Season Tournament on November 24, 2023 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. 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 2023 NBAE (Photo by Tyler Ross/NBAE via Getty Images)

The Smoothie King Center witnessed an intense battle where both teams showcased their offensive capabilities. The Pelicans started strong, leading the first quarter by two points. However, as the game progressed, they struggled to maintain their momentum against a determined Orlando team. Despite a valiant effort in the fourth quarter where they outscored their opponents by six points, it wasn't enough to close the gap created by a dominant second and third quarter from the Magic.


The home team's performance was marked by impressive shooting accuracy from beyond the arc and at free throw line, hitting 41 percent of three-point attempts and converting free throws at an exceptional rate of 86 percent. They also excelled on fast breaks scoring 22 points which highlighted their ability to capitalize on quick transitions.


However, turnovers proved costly for New Orleans as they gave up possession 14 times leading to 18 points for Orlando. Additionally, despite drawing fouls effectively resulting in numerous trips to the line for New Orleans players were unable to convert these opportunities into a lead due largely because of Orlando's efficient offense which boasted a field goal percentage of 51 percent along with scoring nearly half (48) of its total points inside paint.


Orlando's bench made significant contributions adding 40 bench points compared to New Orleans' reserves who contributed only 26 points off bench; this disparity played an important role in overall outcome as well as depth provided by visitors' roster.


Looking ahead after this tough loss at home court fans can catch next action when New Orleans Pelicans host San Antonio Spurs on April 5th at Smoothie King Center scheduled for tip-off at 7:00 PM local time (Central). This upcoming encounter will be available live across multiple platforms including BSNO and BSSW networks ensuring supporters won't miss any action from what promises another exciting night basketball here Louisiana!

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