WASHINGTON – In an electrifying display of scoring prowess, Brandon Ingram notched a season-high 40 points, propelling the New Orleans Pelicans to a dominant 144-122 win over the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night. The victory, marked by high-octane offense, showcased the Pelicans’ depth and resilience, particularly in the absence of their star player, Zion Williamson.
Ingram’s stellar performance was complemented by Trey Murphy III’s sharpshooting, as he drained six 3-pointers to contribute 27 points. The Pelicans, playing without Williamson due to a sprained ankle, didn’t seem to miss a beat. Jonas Valanciunas dominated the glass, amassing 16 points and 18 rebounds, while CJ McCollum poured in 22 points, adding to the team’s offensive onslaught.
The Pelicans’ scoring efficiency was nothing short of remarkable. Ingram, Murphy, Valanciunas, and McCollum together shot an impressive 62.5% from the field, eclipsing New Orleans’ previous season-high point total of 131. Head coach Willie Green lauded the team’s effort, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus and execution in every game, irrespective of the opponent.
While Williamson’s status remains day-to-day following an injury in Monday’s game against Minnesota, the Pelicans demonstrated their ability to adapt and thrive.
On the Wizards’ front, Kyle Kuzma led the charge with 27 points, but his efforts weren’t enough to counter the Pelicans’ relentless offense. Early in the game, the Wizards looked poised for a competitive matchup, leading by as much as 15 points. However, the Pelicans quickly closed the gap, with Murphy’s 3-pointer from the top of the arc securing their first lead at 42-40.
The game’s turning point was a decisive 22-4 run by the Pelicans, part of a staggering 47-point second quarter that set the tone for the rest of the match. This scoring blitz, including a remarkable 31-footer from Murphy, highlighted New Orleans’ offensive depth and sharpshooting capabilities.
Washington’s defense, having conceded over 140 points for the second time this week, continues to struggle. The loss marked the team’s 20th in the last 23 games, a concerning statistic that harks back to the 2012-13 season.
Looking ahead, the Pelicans will continue their road trip, facing the Charlotte Hornets on Friday. The Wizards, seeking to rebound from their recent skid, will host the Indiana Pacers on the same day.
In conclusion, the Pelicans’ emphatic victory, led by Ingram’s scoring feat and supported by a solid team effort, sends a strong message about their depth and resilience, even in the absence of key players like Williamson.
