The New Orleans Pelicans defeated the visiting Milwaukee Bucks, 107-100, at Smoothie King Center on Thursday.
While there were five ties and eight lead changes in the first quarter, Milwaukee never relinquished the lead after that. They rode a 35-20 second quarter to their win, with the Bucks never attempting a game-tying shot over the final 35 minutes. The Pelicans dominated at the free-throw line, collecting on 27-of-34, while the Bucks hit just 10-of-19. New Orleans also recorded 11 steals while Milwaukee had just one, winning the turnover battle, 14-6.
The Bucks (46-27) were led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, collecting 35 points, 14 rebounds and four assists. Damian Lillard tallied 20 points, five rebounds and seven assists. Malik Beasley amassed 20 points and two boards, while Khris Middleton compiled seven points, eight rebounds and six assists. Brook Lopez totaled seven points, five rebounds and three blocks.
The Pelicans (45-28) were led by Zion Williamson, finishing with 28 points, five rebounds and two assists, CJ McCollum generated 25 points, seven rebounds and seven assists. Jonas Valanciunas accrued 17 points and 10 rebounds, while Trey Murphy provided 15 points, 11 rebounds, five assists and two steals. Herbert Jones also had 11 points, four rebounds, four assists, four steals and three blocks.
Both teams return to action on Saturday, with Milwaukee traveling to face the Atlanta Hawks and New Orleans remaining home to play the Boston Celtics.
