Intense Showdown Between Warriors and Pelicans
In today’s matchup between the Warriors and the Pelicans, both teams battled for a crucial position in the play-in tournament and the playoffs. Despite trailing for the first three quarters, the Warriors rallied in the fourth, led by their star guard Stephen Curry, who scored 16 points in the final quarter. However, with only 13 seconds left in the game, Curry missed a hurried shot, while the Pelicans sealed the victory with Trey Murphy III sinking two free throws, winning 114-109. Nevertheless, the outcome of the game did not determine the sixth seed in the Western Conference, as the Suns also emerged victorious against the Kings.
Pelicans Secure Playoff Spot with Victory
The Pelicans had a clear objective in today’s game: a win would secure them the sixth seed in the Western Conference and a direct ticket to the playoffs, especially if the Suns faltered against the Kings. On the other hand, the Warriors still had a chance to vie for the eighth seed in the West against the Kings and the Lakers, making this game a must-win for both teams.
Slow Start for Pelicans, Explosive Second Quarter
The Pelicans struggled to find their rhythm in the first quarter, scoring only 17 points. However, they turned the tide in the second quarter, exploding for 45 points and establishing a 14-point lead by halftime. Throughout the second half, the Pelicans maintained their dominance over the Warriors.
Warriors’ Fourth-Quarter Comeback Effort
In the final quarter, the Warriors’ dynamic duo of Curry and Klay Thompson spearheaded a comeback attempt. Thompson orchestrated a 14-4 run, followed by Curry single-handedly scoring 16 points in the last eight minutes. Curry’s efforts narrowed the gap to three points with 56.1 seconds remaining. However, his hasty three-point attempt with 13.1 seconds left failed to find the net, while Murphy’s clutch free throws secured the Pelicans’ victory.
Balanced Scoring for Pelicans
Three Pelicans players scored over 20 points in today’s game. CJ McCollum led the team with 28 points, sinking 8 three-pointers, while Zion Williamson and Murphy contributed 26 and 24 points, respectively. Meanwhile, Curry led the Warriors with 33 points.
Playoff Race Tightens
Despite the Pelicans’ crucial win, the Suns’ victory over the Kings ensured that the race for the sixth seed in the West remained undecided. As for the Warriors, despite their loss, the Kings’ defeat means they, along with the Lakers who secured the eighth seed today, still have a chance to compete for the eighth seed, prolonging the intense battle for playoff and play-in positions in the Western Conference. (Lvbet)
