The New Orleans Pelicans faced the Houston Rockets on Thursday night, marking their third matchup this season. Despite the Pelicans' efforts, the Rockets secured a 109-97 victory, extending their lead in the regular season series to 3-0. Notably, Pelicans' forward Trey Murphy led his team with 26 points, while Zion Williamson contributed 20 points. Williamson, confident in his abilities, stated that Rockets forward Dillon Brooks could not guard him effectively, a claim supported by his impressive scoring average against Brooks in their past encounters.

Though the Pelicans continue to struggle as they aim for a top-five pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, Williamson's performance remains a silver lining. The Pelicans have now lost crucial games, and with the Rockets eyeing playoff positioning, the implications of this game resonate throughout the Western Conference standings. The Pelicans' shooting woes and high turnover rate ultimately sealed their fate in this contest.