Brandon Ingram notched 24 points, while Jonas Valanciunas contributed 19 points and 12 rebounds, propelling the New Orleans Pelicans to a 105-98 triumph over the Sacramento Kings in a pivotal play-in tournament clash on Friday night.
In the absence of top scorer Zion Williamson, sidelined with a left hamstring strain during a recent loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, the Pelicans showcased resilience. They displayed a balanced offensive performance, improving their record to 8-5 this season without Williamson. Notably, six players tallied 10 or more points, including Larry Nance Jr. (13), Naji Marshall (11), and Jose Alvarado (10), providing crucial support.
Trey Murphy III, thrust into the starting lineup due to Williamson’s injury, chipped in with 16 points for New Orleans.
Sacramento’s De’Aaron Fox led the charge with 35 points, while Domantas Sabonis contributed 23 points and 14 rebounds for the Kings.
The game served as a test for the Pelicans, who faced the pressure of a must-win scenario after faltering in previous opportunities to secure a playoff berth at home.
Despite setbacks against the Lakers, New Orleans showcased dominance over Sacramento, extending their season-long undefeated streak against the Kings to 6-0. This achievement marked a notable milestone, with the Pelicans becoming the first team since Denver in 1994-95 to achieve a 6-0 record against an opponent in a single season without a playoff series.
Moreover, the Pelicans continued the trend of No. 7 seeds never missing the playoffs since the introduction of the play-in tournament in 2020. Despite their defeat to the Lakers, the Pelicans secured a spot in the playoffs as the eighth seed, setting up a showdown with top-seeded Oklahoma City.
Although the Pelicans struggled initially, committing six turnovers in the first quarter, they rallied back to establish a commanding lead in the second quarter.
Naji Marshall’s impactful three-pointer and steal further energized the Pelicans, while the Kings’ depth was further depleted with Keegan Murray’s injury.
Led by Valanciunas and Ingram, the Pelicans maintained their momentum to secure a halftime lead, eventually clinching victory and a coveted playoff berth.
