The Pelicans soared to a commanding victory over the Wizards, ending a nine-game losing streak in style! But it wasn't just any win; it was a statement game.
On January 9th, 2026, Trey Murphy III and Zion Williamson combined forces to score a whopping 66 points, leading the Pelicans to a 128-107 triumph over the home team. However, the real star of the night was Derik Queen, the rookie sensation, who dominated with a triple-double, racking up 14 points, 16 rebounds, and 12 assists. This performance marked Queen's second triple-double, solidifying his status as a rising star.
The Wizards, despite the efforts of Kyshawn George and Tristan Vukcevic, who both contributed 15 points, were missing a key piece: Trae Young. Young, recently traded to Washington, was sidelined with quadriceps and knee problems. And this is where it gets interesting: the crowd gave Young a warm welcome during his introduction, despite his absence on the court. Could this be a sign of the fans' high expectations for the new guard?
New Orleans had a substantial lead at halftime, which they extended in the third quarter. The Wizards fought back in the fourth, but a decisive 21-5 run by the Pelicans sealed their fate. Jeremiah Fears contributed 21 points to the Pelicans' cause, who shot an impressive 53% from the field.
Washington had a balanced scoring effort with seven players in double digits, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Pelicans' offensive onslaught. Alex Sarr's 14 points were overshadowed by his lack of rebounds, highlighting the Wizards' struggle on the boards.
This game showcased the Pelicans' potential, especially with the young talent of Murphy, Williamson, and Queen. But will they be able to maintain this level of performance consistently? The Wizards, on the other hand, have a new challenge ahead with Trae Young in the mix. Can he be the missing piece they need to turn their season around? The upcoming games will be crucial for both teams as they strive to find their rhythm in the competitive NBA landscape.
