NBA Daily Roundup: Depleted Pelicans Upset Mavericks
Minus their two All-Stars, the New Orleans Pelicans still found a way to beat the Dallas Mavericks.
Pelicans Show Depth in Close Win
Minus three of their usual starters, the New Orleans Pelicans still managed to pull off a 113-111 victory over Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks. Second-year forward Trey Murphy III was literally perfect in this game, as he scored 22 points on 8-of-8 shooting from the field, including 4-of-4 from the three-point line. Along with Murphy, seven other Pelicans also put up double digits in the scoring column, with shooting guard CJ McCollum chipping in a double-double of 14 points and 11 assists.
The Pelicans missed the services of three stars, with Zion Williamson (posterior hip contusion), Brandon Ingram (concussion protocol), and Herb Jones (right knee hyperextension) all sitting out. Still, the Pelicans started the game with fire, exploding to a 40-point opening quarter that set the tone.
Luka Doncic led the way for the Mavericks with his 37 points, 11 boards, and 7 assists, but struggled shooting the three-ball (2-of-13 3PT). Christian Wood produced 23 markers off the bench, as the Mavericks fall to a 1-2 slate to start the season.
SGA, Thunder Drub Undermanned Clippers
The Oklahoma City Thunder took advantage of their opponent’s depleted lineup as they put away the Los Angeles Clippers, 108-94. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had his fingerprints all over the place, as he stuffed the stat sheet with 33 points, five rebounds, eight assists, three steals, and three blocks. Sophomore guard Tre Mann was also instrumental in the win, finishing with 25 markers to reinforce Gilgeous-Alexander on offense.
The Clippers were without Marcus Morris Sr. (personal reasons), and superstars Paul George (non-COVID illness) and Kawhi Leonard (load management) in the loss. Luke Kennard topscored for the Clippers with 15 points, while veteran guard John Wall came up with 12 points, four assists, and two steals.
Other NBA Results Today:
Detroit Pistons lost to the Washington Wizards, 120-99
Golden State Warriors lost to the Phoenix Suns, 105-134