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Pelicans Beat Bulls 123-111 Minus Williamson
Williamson’s illness-related absence did not hold the Pelicans back. Thanks to a combined effort from Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum, New Orleans secured a 123-111 win at Smoothie King Center. Pelicans Beat Bulls 123-111 Minus Williamson
Zion Williamson’s Absence
Last season, Williamson missed critical moments, including the team’s first-round playoff series against the Oklahoma City Thunder due to a hamstring strain.
Pelicans coach Willie Green addressed the situation. The team is hopeful for Williamson’s return, but his status remains uncertain. “We don’t know yet,” Green added.
Williamson’s illness-related absence did not hold the Pelicans back.
Starting Lineup Adjustments
Without Williamson, Green had to adjust his starting lineup. The absence of Zion Williamson due to illness forced Pelicans coach Willie Green to significantly adjust his starting lineup for the opening game against the Chicago Bulls. Without their star forward, Green opted for a lineup that leaned on experience and defensive versatility. He started Dejounte Murray, CJ McCollum, Herb Jones, Brandon Ingram, and Daniel Theis—this was the same group that played together in the team’s final preseason game.
The decision to go with this lineup highlighted Green’s strategy to rely on his guards and wings for both offense and defense. McCollum and Murray, as the backcourt duo, brought strong ball-handling and playmaking, while Herb Jones and Brandon Ingram provided length and defensive presence on the wings.
McCollum, the team’s most seasoned player, stepped up as the offensive leader early on. Meanwhile, Brandon Ingram, who has consistently grown as an all-around player, took on an expanded role in the second half, particularly with his improved 3-point shooting.
Green’s decision to stick with this unit showcased his confidence in their ability to execute the game plan, even without the team’s franchise player. The seamless chemistry between these starters not only helped secure the win but also provided a glimpse of the Pelicans’ depth and adaptability for the rest of the season.
CJ McCollum Shines Early
He shot 5 of 11 from behind the arc, showing his value as a veteran leader.
A key moment came in the third quarter when Dejounte Murray and Daniel Theis forced a turnover.
Ingram, who had expressed a desire to take more 3-pointers this season, did just that.
Ingram’s offensive performance, combined with his defensive energy, solidified his role as a leader on the team.
Defensive Dominance
They forced the Bulls into 21 turnovers, converting those mistakes into 30 points. This defensive pressure overwhelmed Chicago, and New Orleans capitalized on their opportunities in transition.
Javonte Green, coming off the bench, made a significant impact with his defense. In the fourth quarter, Green intercepted a pass from Zach LaVine and raced down the court for a fast-break dunk.
Yves Missi’s Stellar Debut
Rookie Yves Missi made an immediate impact in his first NBA game. Missi’s energy and physicality brought an added dimension to the Pelicans’ bench.
Bench Contributions
The Pelicans’ bench outscored the Bulls’ reserves 43-32. Alongside Missi, Javonte Green provided valuable minutes. Backup players like Dyson Daniels and Kira Lewis Jr. also contributed to the team’s success, keeping the pace high and the pressure on Chicago throughout the game.
The Pelicans’ bench played a pivotal role in their opening-night victory over the Chicago Bulls, providing energy, defense, and timely scoring. Without Zion Williamson in the lineup, the team needed its reserves to step up, and they delivered, contributing significantly on both ends of the floor.
One of the standout performers off the bench was rookie Yves Missi. In his NBA debut, Missi made an immediate impact with his hustle and defense. His athleticism and ability to protect the rim helped the Pelicans maintain their defensive intensity, especially in the second half. Missi’s performance was capped by a loud ovation from the home crowd when he was subbed out late in the fourth quarter, a testament to his effort and potential as a key contributor moving forward.
Javonte Green also provided a spark off the bench, contributing nine points. His defensive playmaking was crucial, highlighted by a key steal off Zach LaVine that he converted into a fast-break dunk. Green’s energy, particularly on the defensive end, kept the Bulls on their heels and allowed the Pelicans to capitalize on Chicago’s mistakes. He also played a significant role in converting turnovers into points, as New Orleans scored 30 points off the Bulls’ 21 turnovers.
In total, the Pelicans’ bench contributed 43 points, providing crucial support for the starters. This depth allowed Coach Willie Green to maintain a high level of play throughout the game, even when the starters needed rest. The strong performance from the bench not only helped secure the win but also showcased the team’s overall depth and potential for sustained success throughout the season.
Outlook for the Pelicans
CJ McCollum’s Leadership
Conclusion
The Pelicans’ defense forced turnovers and created easy scoring opportunities in transition, while the bench, led by rookie Yves Missi, provided a significant boost.As the Pelicans move forward, they’ll look to build on this momentum.
