Pelicans
The Pelicans are suddenly on a roll. And yes, it’s still strange to type that.
Zion Williamson scored 24 points and took over late, pouring in 10 straight during a decisive fourth-quarter stretch to lift New Orleans to a 119-113 win over Dallas.
The victory extended the Pelicans’ winning streak to five games, their longest since 2022, after opening the season 3-22.
New Orleans trailed by eight entering the fourth, then blitzed the Mavericks with a 38-19 run over the first 10-plus minutes. With the margin tight late, Williamson scored on five of six possessions, repeatedly bullying his way to the rim.
Derik Queen added 19 points and 11 rebounds, Saddiq Bey chipped in 19 and seven, and Trey Murphy III iced it at the line.
The Pelicans are still digging out. But lately, they’ve looked far more dangerous doing it.
Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers will be without Luka Doncic on Tuesday against Phoenix.
Doncic was ruled out with a left calf contusion after exiting Saturday’s loss to the Clippers early. Coach JJ Redick said the issue has lingered this season and the team is exploring ways to better protect Doncic’s legs.
“It’s happened a bunch,” Redick said.
Austin Reaves remains day-to-day with a mild calf strain and was listed as questionable, while Rui Hachimura was ruled out with a groin issue.
The good news came up front, where Deandre Ayton returned to practice and was cleared for Tuesday after missing two games with elbow soreness.
The Lakers return home for a Christmas Day matchup with Houston.
Hornets
The Hornets may have lost in Cleveland, but rookie Kon Knueppel still made history.
Knueppel became the fastest player in NBA history to reach 100 made three-pointers, hitting the milestone in his 29th career game. He finished 5-of-7 from deep for 20 points in the loss.
That’s 12 games quicker than the previous record holder and nearly 30 faster than Stephen Curry’s pace.
“He’s got a phenomenal base,” coach Charles Lee told reporters, praising Knueppel’s mechanics and preparation.
The rookie, taken fourth overall, entered the night averaging 19.4 points while shooting better than 40 percent from three.
The Cavs got the win. Knueppel got the record. And the Hornets may have found something real.
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