Saddiq Bey's 42-point performance was the highlight of the New Orleans Pelicans' 129-118 victory over the Utah Jazz in Salt Lake City on Thursday night. But here's where it gets controversial: While Bey's hot shooting was the main attraction, the Pelicans' success also relied on a strong team effort. Zion Williamson added 20 points and four steals, while Dejonte Murray tallied 17 points, nine assists, and four steals in his return from an Achilles injury. And this is the part most people miss: The Pelicans' 52.3% field goal percentage and 38.2% 3-point shooting were key to their win. Ace Bailey led Utah with 23 points, but the Jazz struggled with a 50% field goal percentage and 32.4% 3-point shooting. The game was close in the first quarter, with Utah taking a 35-29 lead. However, the Pelicans erased the deficit and surged ahead before halftime. Bey and Williamson combined for 33 points and six assists in the first half, and Bey's driving layup and turnaround jumper kickstarted a 17-4 run that gave the Pelicans a double-digit lead. New Orleans put the game away with a 10-0 run to start the third quarter, and Bey's reverse layup and transition 3-pointer gave them an 88-61 lead. Utah rallied in the fourth quarter, but Bey's back-to-back layups kept them from drawing closer. The two teams will play again in Salt Lake City on Saturday night. So, who do you think will come out on top in the next game? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
