Pelicans Beat Bulls 119-113, Thanks to Strong Performances from Murphy and Williamson
CHICAGO (AP) —
Trey Murphy III scored 32 points and Zion Williamson added 21 as the New Orleans Pelicans beat the Chicago Bulls 119-113 on Tuesday night.
Williamson Leads the Way
Williamson, in his third game since returning from a left hamstring strain and a one-game suspension, led the Pelicans in rebounds (seven) and assists (nine). Murphy shot 9 for 20 from the field — just 2 for 13 from 3-point distance — and was helped by hitting all 12 of his free throws.
Pelicans’ Resurgence
The Pelicans, who are last in the Western Conference, have won four of their last seven games to improve to 9-32.
Takeaways
* Pelicans: New Orleans struggled early, hitting 36.5% of its shots and going 4 for 24 from deep in the first two periods. In the second, the Pelicans made 10 of 25 3-pointers and shot 52.3% overall.
* Bulls: LaVine’s 30-point hot streak ended at six games as Chicago’s star guard had just two points on 1-of-7 shooting at the half.
Key Moment
With the game tied at 88, the Pelicans went on a 10-2 run to jump out an eight-point lead. Jose Alvarado hit two 3s to make the score 98-90, forcing Bulls coach Billy Donovan to call a timeout.
Key Stat
New Orleans shot 12 for 22 in the fourth quarter while Chicago was 12 of 32. After entering the final period tied at 86, the Pelicans outscored the Bulls 33-27.
Up Next
New Orleans will host the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday. Chicago is back in action on Wednesday, hosting Atlanta.
Q: How did the Pelicans perform in the second half?
A: The Pelicans shot 52.3% overall and made 10 of 25 3-pointers in the second half.
Q: How did LaVine perform in the first half?
A: LaVine had just two points on 1-of-7 shooting in the first half.
Q: What was the key moment in the game?
A: The Pelicans’ 10-2 run in the fourth quarter, which gave them an eight-point lead.
