Pelicans Suffer Crushing 119-100 Defeat to Trail Blazers

NEW ORLEANS, La. — The New Orleans Pelicans suffered a demoralizing 119-100 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday night at the Smoothie King Center. The Pelicans, already struggling this season, trailed by as many as 33 points and were booed by their home crowd as they exited the court at halftime, down 75-42.

The Pelicans played without star forward Zion Williamson, who was held out as a precaution after returning from a left hamstring strain the previous night. Williamson’s absence was felt as the team struggled to find rhythm on both ends of the court. Herb Jones, the team’s top defender, also left the game in the third quarter with a right shoulder injury, further compounding the Pelicans’ woes.

Portland dominated from the opening tip, shooting an impressive 67.4% in the first half and setting a season-high for first-half points with 75. The Blazers’ balanced attack was led by Anfernee Simons, who scored 26 points, and Jerami Grant, who added 21. Portland’s bench also contributed significantly, with Malcolm Brogdon scoring 17 points and Jabari Walker adding 15.

For the Pelicans, Brandon Ingram led the way with 23 points, while CJ McCollum added 20. However, their efforts were not enough to overcome the Blazers’ relentless offense and stifling defense. The Pelicans, now 7-31 on the season, have lost 22 of their last 25 games and sit at the bottom of the Western Conference standings.

“Tonight was one of those nights that we didn’t bring it,” Pelicans coach Willie Green said. “We’ve got to resist these games, resist mental fatigue, and continue to step on the floor and compete as a group. We didn’t do that at a high level tonight.”

The Pelicans’ struggles have been exacerbated by injuries, with Williamson, Jones, and others missing significant time. The team has used 19 different starting lineups this season, and that number could rise if Jones’ shoulder injury keeps him out of Friday’s game against the Philadelphia 76ers.

Portland, meanwhile, has shown signs of improvement, winning four of their last seven games. The Blazers, now 13-23, have scored 103 or more points in 11 of their last 12 games, showcasing their offensive firepower.

The Pelicans will look to regroup as they head to Philadelphia for their next game, while the Trail Blazers travel to Dallas to face the Mavericks on Thursday night.