Pelicans Overcome Injury-Depleted Mavericks with Williamson’s 27 Points

Latest ORLEANS (AP) — Zion Williamson scored 27 points, leading the New Orleans Pelicans to a 129-111 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Monday night. The Pelicans secured their eighth win in 12 games, despite playing without Dejounte Murray due to illness.

Key Performances

Saddiq Bey contributed 23 points for the Pelicans, while Jeremiah Fears and Trey Murphy III each added 17 points. Yves Missi, a second-year center, made his ninth start of the season in place of Murray, grabbing 10 rebounds and blocking five shots. Karlo Matkovic added 13 points and 10 rebounds off the bench.

For the Mavericks, Naji Marshall led the scoring with 32 points against his former team. Dallas rookie Cooper Flagg, the top pick in the 2025 draft, showcased a strong performance with 21 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds. P.J. Washington scored 18 points, and Max Christie added 12 points on four 3-pointers.

Williamson’s Efficiency and Season Performance

Williamson was highly efficient, making 11 of 13 shots in 28 minutes of play. Despite a history of injuries limiting his playing time, Williamson has appeared in 52 games this season, averaging 21.5 points per game.

Mavericks Face Challenges

The Mavericks were significantly hampered by injuries and illness, playing without Klay Thompson (rest), Daniel Gafford (illness), and Caleb Martin (sore right foot).

Coaching Adjustments and Future Matchups

Pelicans coach James Borrego adjusted the lineup in Murray’s absence, utilizing Murphy and Herb Jones in the backcourt. Veteran guard Jordan Poole also saw his first playing time in eight games, coming off the bench.

The Mavericks will next host the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday night. The Pelicans will also play on Wednesday, hosting the Los Angeles Clippers in the first of two consecutive games against them.