Zion Williamson sparks the Pelicans to a comeback win over the Bulls
Zion Williamson returned from a six-game stint on the sidelines to help the New Orleans Pelicans secure a 114-104 victory at Chicago’s United Center. The win showcased what the Pelicans can achieve with Williamson back on the floor, alongside strong contributions from Trey Murphy III and rookies Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen.
Murphy and Fears were the game’s top scorers with 20 points each, while Williamson added 18 points and six rebounds after missing recent games with a right adductor strain. His late first-half burst helped tilt the momentum in New Orleans’ favor, and he finished with a timely scoring spree as the Pelicans built their lead.
Queen provided a solid all-around performance with eight rebounds and a game-high six assists, underscoring his growing role as a facilitator and rebounder off the bench. Murphy, who entered Sunday riding a hot streak, contributed a double-double with 20 points and 10 boards, and Poole chipped in with 16 points to pace the visitors.
New Orleans shot well from the field and grabbed decisive stretches, earning just their second road win in 12 attempts this season. The Pelicans had previously endured a tough spell, dropping 16 of 17 before turning things around with back-to-back wins.
For Chicago, Coby White led the charge with 20 points, but his struggles from three-point range—shooting 1-for-10 beyond the arc—proved costly as the Bulls lost a fourth consecutive home game. White also contributed five rebounds and five assists. Kevin Huerter came off the bench to add 16 points, including two late 3-pointers to keep the Bulls within striking distance, while Nikola Vucevic grabbed eight rebounds and nailed two late threes en route to 12 points.
Josh Giddey finished with 11 points, below his season average, marking a quiet night two days after a 26-point, 11-assist, seven-rebound performance against Charlotte.
Overall, the Pelicans displayed resilience with Williamson back, signaling a potentially more dangerous squad as the season progresses. Do you think Williamson’s return changes how New Orleans will pace its rotation going forward, or will Murphy, Fears, and Queen continue to shoulder much of the scoring responsibility? Share your thoughts in the comments.
