The Atlanta Hawks and the New Orleans Pelicans met tonight in a matchup that placed two teams at different stages of their early-season rhythm on the same stage, each looking to make a statement. For Atlanta, the game served as an opportunity to extend momentum and continue refining the chemistry within their dynamic backcourt. For New Orleans, it offered a chance to stabilize at home and break out of recent inconsistency.
The Atlanta Hawks defeated the New Orleans Pelicans, 115–98, marking the first
time this season Atlanta has held an opponent under 100 points.
The Hawks were led by a standout performance from Kristaps Porziņģis, who recorded 29 points and seven rebounds on an efficient 11-of-17 shooting night. His blend of size, mobility, and perimeter skill consistently challenged the Pelicans’ defense. Whether spacing the floor or finishing inside, Porziņģis anchored Atlanta’s most decisive runs.
Jalen Johnson nearly posted a triple-double, contributing 18 points, 11 rebounds, and nine assists. Off the bench, Vit Krejci added 21 points, providing valuable scoring depth.
The opening quarter belonged to New Orleans, which jumped ahead 25–21 through assertive rebounding and early-paced offense. However, the momentum shifted quickly. Atlanta responded with a dominant 35–21 second quarter, transforming the tone of the matchup. Increased defensive pressure, improved ball movement, and efficient transition play allowed the Hawks to convert Pelicans turnovers into scoring opportunities.
That surge extended into the third quarter, where Atlanta outscored New Orleans 32–24, effectively putting the game out of reach. Despite a slow start, the Hawks’ explosive middle quarters buried the Pelicans. Atlanta continued to execute in the fourth, adding 27 more points to seal the win.
Overall, the Hawks shot 46% from the field and 37% from three-point range, demonstrating consistent offensive discipline. Their ability to control tempo, value possessions, and maintain defensive engagement prevented New Orleans from generating any late-game momentum.
The Pelicans struggled throughout, particularly in the third quarter, and were notably without Zion Williamson and Dejounte Murray due to injury. Their 18 turnovers proved costly, especially compared to Atlanta’s season-low mark of seven. While New Orleans outrebounded Atlanta 48–42, the advantage did little to compensate for their inefficiency and inability to protect the ball.
