Pelicans Suffer Historic Loss to Pistons Amid Season Collapse

NEW ORLEANS, LA — The New Orleans Pelicans endured a dismal performance Monday night, falling 127-81 to the Detroit Pistons, marking their third consecutive loss and the seventh defeat in their last eight games. This 46-point margin ties the record for the worst regular season loss in franchise history.

In a game reflecting their struggles this season, the Pelicans (18-51) shot just 32.6% from the field, shooting an abysmal 15.6% from three-point range by hitting only 5 of 32 attempts. Meanwhile, Cade Cunningham led the Pistons with 24 points, and Simone Fontecchio added 23 off the bench, helping Detroit dominate the game.

“We didn’t have the energy we needed from the beginning,” Pelicans coach Willie Green said. “The Pistons set the tone early, and we weren’t able to respond.”

The Pelicans’ disappointing outing was exacerbated by an injury to forward Trey Murphy III, who left the game with a right shoulder issue just one minute in. Although X-rays were negative, his status for the upcoming matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves is uncertain.

New Orleans fell behind early, trailing 35-13 by the end of the first quarter. Their offensive woes continued, as the team managed only five baskets in that period, with Zion Williamson scoring just two points through free throws. The Pistons capitalized on a 24-5 run that set the tempo, and New Orleans trailed at halftime 63-32.

In the second half, the Pelicans showed some fight, cutting the deficit to 19 points at one point, primarily thanks to Williamson’s efforts. He finished the game with 30 points alongside six rebounds, including a notable dunk over Isaiah Stewart. Despite his highlights, the team could not sustain a comeback.

“At this point, we need to focus on what we can control,” Williamson said after the game. “Every game counts, and we need to play like it.”

Detroit exploited their size and shooting ability, out-rebounding New Orleans 50-39 and shooting 54.8% from the floor. According to statistics, the Pistons had a significant advantage in bench scoring, outscoring the Pelicans’ reserves 68-27.

The Pelicans will now embark on a three-game road trip, starting with back-to-back games against the Timberwolves before returning to face the Pistons again next Sunday. The team is eager to turn things around after a bleak performance.

“We’re looking for a fresh start,” Green said. “Every game is a new opportunity for us to prove we can turn this around.”