The New Orleans Pelicans finally have something to celebrate after securing back-to-back wins against the Washington Wizards. CJ McCollum led the charge with a spectacular 50-point performance on Friday, tying his career-high and providing a much-needed spark for the struggling team.
McCollum’s shooting was nothing short of phenomenal, going 18-for-27 from the field and draining an impressive 10 three-pointers. His efforts were crucial in securing a close victory that wasn’t decided until late in the fourth quarter.
The veteran guard carried his hot streak into Sunday’s game, contributing 25 points to help the Pelicans complete the sweep of the Wizards. These wins, while coming against a weaker opponent, offer a glimmer of hope for a team that has faced significant challenges this season.
Trey Murphy’s Development and Injury Concern
Trey Murphy has been a bright spot for the Pelicans, showcasing his potential as a reliable scoring option. Over his last 11 games, Murphy has averaged nearly 24 points per game while shooting 39% from beyond the arc. His improved playmaking and defensive contributions have been notable as well.
However, Murphy’s progress hit a snag when he left Sunday’s game with an ankle injury. The severity of the injury is yet to be determined, but any extended absence could hinder the Pelicans’ plans to build chemistry with their core players as they look ahead to next season.
Jose Alvarado’s Energetic Return
The return of Jose Alvarado provided an immediate boost to the Pelicans’ second unit. Despite being on a minutes restriction, Alvarado’s energy and defensive intensity were evident, particularly in a sequence that led to a fast-break opportunity. His presence alone seemed to elevate the team’s overall performance and inject some much-needed enthusiasm into the lineup.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Pelicans’ recent performances, tune into the Locked On Pelicans podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Pelicans Podcast:
• Dejounte Murray’s improved play and triple-double performance
• The importance of the next few months for the Pelicans’ future
• Yves Missi’s development and potential as a rim-running big man
• Potential trade scenarios involving CJ McCollum and Brandon Ingram
