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New Orleans Pelicans Battle Hard but Fall to Undefeated Cavaliers

In a high-scoring affair at the Smoothie King Center, the New Orleans Pelicans put up a valiant effort against the Cleveland Cavaliers but ultimately fell short, 122-131. This result moves the Pelicans to a 3-6 record for the season, while the Cavaliers maintain their perfect start with a 9-0 record.


NEW ORLEANS, LA - NOVEMBER 6: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers drives to the basket during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on November 6, 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)

Key Performances and Game Dynamics


The game was marked by intense back-and-forth action, with lead changes happening ten times throughout. The Pelicans started strong, leading by as much as 12 points during the game. However, they could not sustain this momentum against the relentless offense of the Cavaliers. Despite outscoring their opponents in fast break points (14) and points off turnovers (19), it was not enough to secure victory.


Jose Alvarado emerged as a standout performer for the Pelicans with an impressive stat line of 27 points on an efficient shooting night where he hit all his three-point attempts and added five assists along with three steals. Zion Williamson also made significant contributions with 29 points and eight rebounds, showcasing his ability to dominate inside despite heavy defensive attention.


NEW ORLEANS, LA - NOVEMBER 6: Jalen Crutcher #11 of the New Orleans Pelicans dunks the ball during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on November 6, 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)

On the other side of the court, Cleveland's balanced attack proved too much for New Orleans' defense. The Cavaliers' efficiency from both inside and beyond the arc was on full display as they shot 54 percent from field goals overall and an impressive 49 percent from three-point range.


Looking Ahead


The New Orleans Pelicans will look to bounce back when they visit Orlando Magic at Kia Center in Orlando on November 8th at 7:00 PM EDT. Fans can catch all the action live on Gulf Coast Sports or FDSFL TV networks.


This matchup presents another opportunity for New Orleans to refine their strategies and build upon their strengths demonstrated in this contest. As they prepare for their next game, maintaining focus on reducing turnovers and capitalizing on scoring opportunities will be crucial for success.


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