On December 22, 2025, the New Orleans Pelicans secured a thrilling 119-113 victory over the Dallas Mavericks, extending their winning streak to five games. This remarkable turnaround began with a 3-22 start to the season, but the Pelicans have now posted their longest winning streak since 2022. The game was a testament to the team's resilience and the star power of Zion Williamson, who scored 24 points, including 10 straight in a decisive two-minute span of the fourth quarter. But here's where it gets controversial: the Mavericks, led by Anthony Davis' season-high 35 points, mounted a comeback, cutting the New Orleans lead to 117-113 with 18.1 seconds left. However, Trey Murphy III sealed the deal for the Pelicans with two free throws with 10.4 seconds remaining. The Pelicans' Derik Queen had 19 points and 11 rebounds, and Saddiq Bey added 19 points and seven rebounds. Davis and Klay Thompson were unstoppable in the first half, overcoming an early 11-point deficit to take a 63-57 halftime lead. Davis scored 22 points in the first half, and Thompson came off the bench to score 20. The Mavericks' final bucket of the second quarter was an unguarded 3-pointer from Davis. Thompson, a career 41% shooter from long range, entered the game shooting just 36% from 3, but he nailed five of his first nine 3-pointers. The Pelicans' next game is a visit to Cleveland on Tuesday, while the Mavericks will host Denver on Tuesday. So, what do you think? Do you agree with the Pelicans' victory? Or do you think the Mavericks should have pulled off the comeback? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
