Hornets Rally Past Pelicans 102-95 in Monday Comeback

The Charlotte Hornets executed an impressive comeback on Monday night, defeating the New Orleans Pelicans 102-95. Charlotte overcame a significant 15-point deficit at halftime to secure their seventh consecutive victory.

Pelicans Start Hot

New Orleans began the game in remarkable form. They surged ahead to a 30-23 lead following the first quarter. Trey Murphy III sparkled from the outset, as his smooth jump shot repeatedly found the net.

By halftime, the Pelicans had extended their advantage to 64-49. Murphy skillfully maneuvered past defenders to make crucial shots. Zion Williamson barreled through the paint like a powerful freight train, using his 250-pound frame to crash toward the rim. Derik Queen dominated the boards, securing rebounds and finishing plays close to the basket.

Hornets Storm Back

However, Charlotte dramatically changed the momentum after halftime. The home crowd grew louder with each possession, energizing the team. LaMelo Ball took command of the game like a skilled conductor leading an orchestra. His flashy passes zipped through narrow openings. He concluded the game with impressive statistics: 24 points, five assists, and eight rebounds.

The Hornets steadily chipped away at the lead, outscoring New Orleans 29-18 in the third quarter. Brandon Miller made pivotal shots precisely when Charlotte needed them the most. Kon Knueppel battled fiercely on the boards, grabbing nine rebounds.

Grant Williams emerged as a spark off the bench, contributing 16 points with blistering shooting. Ryan Kalkbrenner safeguarded the paint with three blocks, his long arms swatting away shots from the Pelicans.

Murphy Fights Alone

Murphy finished the game as the standout player for New Orleans, scoring a game-high 27 points. He fought fiercely until the final buzzer, but the Pelicans ultimately ran out of steam in the fourth quarter.

Williamson added 14 points along with 11 rebounds, while Herbert Jones contributed 12 points. Nevertheless, without the services of injured stars Dejounte Murray, Brandon Ingram, and CJ McCollum, the Pelicans struggled to compete with Charlotte's depth.

Playoff Push

This victory propelled Charlotte’s record to 23-28 overall. Their seven-game winning streak keeps their playoff aspirations alive, while New Orleans dropped to 13-39. Their challenging season continues as they cope without several key players.