Recap
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Can the New Orleans Pelicans' Star Power Outshine the Sacramento Kings at Smoothie King Center?

In a closely contested battle at the Smoothie King Center, the New Orleans Pelicans fell short against the Sacramento Kings with a final score of 109-111. This result moves the Pelicans to a 5-21 record for the season, while the Kings improve to 13-13. Despite their efforts, including leading for over 16 minutes of game time and achieving a highest lead of six points, it wasn't enough to secure victory.


NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - DECEMBER 12: Domantas Sabonis #11 of the Sacramento Kings drives with the ball against the New Orleans Pelicans during a game at the Smoothie King Center on December 12, 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)

Pelicans' Performance Highlights


The New Orleans Pelicans showcased resilience and skill throughout the game. CJ McCollum emerged as a standout performer, scoring an impressive 36 points with an efficiency rating of 31. His shooting was particularly notable, making 58 percent from the field and an exceptional 54 percent from beyond the arc. Dejounte Murray also made significant contributions with 20 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds, although his eight turnovers were costly.


Yves Missi's presence was felt on both ends of the court as he tallied seven points and grabbed eleven rebounds alongside one block. Trey Murphy III added firepower with his scoring ability by contributing 21 points but struggled slightly in ball handling with two turnovers.


NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - DECEMBER 12: Dejounte Murray #5 of the New Orleans Pelicans drives with the ball against the Sacramento Kings during a game at the Smoothie King Center on December 12, 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)

Kings Fight Back


The Sacramento Kings demonstrated why they are formidable opponents this season by overcoming deficits and capitalizing on their chances. Their third-quarter performance was pivotal when they scored an overwhelming 38 points which shifted momentum in their favor. The team's defensive efforts resulted in twelve steals and limited turnovers to eleven compared to seventeen by their opponents.


Sacramento's balanced attack saw them outrebounding New Orleans with fifty-eight total rebounds while maintaining efficient free throw shooting at ninety-three percent accuracy which played a crucial role in clinching this narrow victory.


NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - DECEMBER 12: Domantas Sabonis #11 of the Sacramento Kings drives with the ball against the New Orleans Pelicans during a game at the Smoothie King Center on December 12, 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)

Looking Ahead


The New Orleans Pelicans will aim to bounce back when they visit Indianapolis for a matchup against Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on December 15th at 5:00 PM EDT. Fans can catch all live action on FDSIN or Gulf Coast Sports networks ensuring they don't miss any part of what promises to be an exciting encounter.


As we continue covering every step of their journey this season, share your thoughts about how you think New Orleans can turn around its fortunes moving forward.

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