Imagine being down by double digits in the fourth quarter, only to watch a single player ignite a fiery comeback that leaves the opposition stunned. That’s exactly what happened when Saddiq Bey took over, scoring a staggering 19 of his season-high 36 points in the final frame, leading the New Orleans Pelicans to a thrilling 133-127 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: this wasn’t just any win—it snapped a three-game losing streak for the Pelicans and marked their first victory against Memphis in six attempts. And this is the part most people miss: despite anchoring the last place in the Western Conference, the Pelicans showed glimpses of the resilience that could redefine their season.
The game was a rollercoaster from the start. Trey Murphy III chipped in 32 points, while Zion Williamson dominated with 24 points and 11 rebounds, showcasing his ability to overpower smaller defenders in crucial moments. For Memphis, Jaren Jackson Jr. led the charge with 26 points and 12 rebounds, supported by Jock Landale’s 24 points and 11 rebounds. Cam Spencer also impressed, shooting an efficient 7 of 9 from the field, including 4 of 6 from three-point range. Yet, it was Bey’s late-game heroics—a three-pointer following a critical three-point play by Williamson—that sealed the deal for New Orleans.
Controversial question: Could this be the turning point for the Pelicans, or is it just a fleeting moment in a challenging season? The Grizzlies, meanwhile, are in a slump of their own, losing five of their last seven games and hovering just outside the playoff picture. Their struggles were compounded by the absence of guard Ja Morant, whose left elbow UCL strain kept him sidelined amid swirling trade rumors. Bold statement: Morant’s future in Memphis is uncertain, and his absence raises questions about the team’s ability to compete without their star player.
Memphis initially looked unstoppable, building a 13-point lead in the third quarter with scorching shooting, including a perfect 6-for-6 from three-point range. But New Orleans chipped away, with Williamson’s physicality and Bey’s clutch scoring flipping the script in the fourth. By the time the final buzzer sounded, the Pelicans had not only erased the deficit but also delivered a statement win.
Looking ahead, the Pelicans continue their three-game road trip in San Antonio on Sunday, while the Grizzlies host the Denver Nuggets. Thought-provoking question: Can the Pelicans build on this momentum, or will they revert to their earlier struggles? And for the Grizzlies, is this just a rough patch, or are deeper issues at play? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one discussion you won’t want to miss!
