Red-hot Pelicans torch Clippers for fourth-straight victory

The hot shooting of the New Orleans Pelicans continued in Hollywood after overpowering the top-seeded Los Angeles Clippers, 117-106.

The Pelicans started the game strong, outscoring the Clippers by 17 points after consecutive three-point baskets by Trey Murphy III.

TREY3?? pic.twitter.com/63OZznTOpi

— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) February 8, 2024

The Clippers would climb their way back into the game with the combined efforts of James Harden and Norman Powell.

In the 9:05 mark of the second quarter, Harden added another milestone as he moved past Maurice Cheeks (7,392) for 15th on the all-time assists list.

dat pass 👀

Harden ?? Norm 👌 https://t.co/gd50SCdDn7 pic.twitter.com/EWeN9xN1PH

— LA Clippers (@LAClippers) February 8, 2024

But come the fourth quarter, Zion Williamson simply took over as he continued to attack the Clippers defense as New Orleans’ lead ballooned up to 16 points.

ZION REVERSE ?? pic.twitter.com/UoT1XHLF0V

— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) February 8, 2024

The Pelicans shot well from downtown, making 12 three-pointers, but it was also the team’s presence on the inside that contributed to the win.

New Orleans shot 53.4% from the field while limiting the Clippers to just 45%. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George struggled for LA as they combined for just 22 points.

CJ McCollum, meanwhile, led the way for the Pelicans with 25 points, seven rebounds, and four assists, while Williamson added 21 points and 11 assists.

CJ 3!

Zion at a double double:
19 PTS, 10 AST pic.twitter.com/5CaaolVGVQ

— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) February 8, 2024

Following the Sacramento Kings’ loss to the Detroit Pistons, the Pelicans moved up to sixth place in the Western Conference standings with a 30-21 record. The Clippers, meanwhile, slid back down to the fourth spot with a 34-16 record.