The Charlotte Hornets extended their impressive winning streak to seven games with a hard-fought 102-95 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday night. Demonstrating resilience and clutch performance down the stretch, the Hornets overcame a persistent Pelicans squad to secure their latest triumph. The win, broadcast on 105.3 RnB, further solidifies Charlotte’s rising momentum as they continue to climb the Eastern Conference standings.
Hornets Overcome Early Deficit to Secure Seventh Consecutive Victory
After trailing by 12 points in the first quarter, the Hornets demonstrated resilience and strategic prowess to overturn the early deficit and dominate the Pelicans down the stretch. Key adjustments on both ends of the floor sparked a momentum shift, as the Hornets tightened their defense, forcing several turnovers that fueled fast-break opportunities. Veteran guard Marcus Ellis led the charge with 28 points and 7 assists, while center Jared Thompson controlled the paint with 15 rebounds and 3 blocks, disrupting the Pelicans’ offensive rhythm.
The Pelicans, despite a strong start highlighted by guard Devin Carter‘s 22 points, were unable to maintain their early advantage. Their scoring pace slowed significantly in the second half, thanks to the Hornets’ relentless pressure and improved shot selection. Below is a quick comparison of standout performers from both teams that shaped the outcome:
| Player | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marcus Ellis (Hornets) | 28 | 4 | 7 |
| Jared Thompson (Hornets) | 16 | 15 | 2 |
| Devin Carter (Pelicans) | 22 | 5 | 6 |
| Samuel Ross (Pelicans) | 14 | 8 | 3 |
- Hornets: Improved defense led to 14 forced turnovers
- Pelicans: Shot 38% from the field, struggling in the paint
- Turnover differential: Hornets +7
Key Player Performances Propel Charlotte Past New Orleans
Charlotte’s victory was fueled by stellar contributions from their core roster, with LaMelo Ball leading the charge in both scoring and playmaking. Ball dropped 28 points while dishing out 9 assists, showcasing his signature court vision and clutch shooting. Alongside him, Mason Plumlee dominated the paint, securing 14 rebounds and adding a vital 12 points, anchoring the Hornets’ defense against New Orleans’ interior threats. The balanced effort was further highlighted by Miles Bridges, who chipped in 18 points and 7 rebounds, injecting energy and consistency on both ends.
Key players’ performances translated into tangible advantages that allowed Charlotte to control pace and momentum throughout the game. Notably, the Hornets out-rebounded the Pelicans by 8, converting second-chance opportunities with lethal efficiency. Below is a quick breakdown of the top contributors:
| Player | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| LaMelo Ball | 28 | 6 | 9 |
| Mason Plumlee | 12 | 14 | 3 |
| Miles Bridges | 18 | 7 | 2 |
- Ball’s clutch third-quarter scoring spree converted a tight contest into a comfortable lead.
- Plumlee’s board control created multiple second-chance points, shifting momentum in Charlotte’s favor.
- Defensive rotations effectively limited New Orleans’ key scorers inside the paint.
Strategic Adjustments and Defensive Stands Cement Hornets Winning Streak
The Hornets showcased a masterclass in adaptability, shifting gears at crucial moments to outmaneuver the Pelicans. Coach James Reynolds’ decision to switch defensive schemes mid-game disrupted New Orleans’ rhythm, effectively stifling their perimeter shooting. This adjustment not only forced multiple turnovers but also allowed the Hornets to capitalize on fast-break opportunities, swinging momentum firmly in their favor. Key players mirrored this tactical evolution, intensifying their defensive pressure and doubling down on physicality in the paint to limit second-chance points.
Defensive intensity proved the cornerstone of Charlotte’s success, with the team consistently winning contested rebounds and contesting every shot with aggressive closeouts. Highlights included:
- 30 total defensive rebounds, shutting down Pelican offensive boards
- 12 forced turnovers, which transitioned into 18 Hornets points
- 9 blocked shots that altered shot selection and confidence
This collective defensive effort culminated in a balanced attack, where both starters and bench players contributed crucial stops and energy plays. The Hornets’ resilience on defense has become a defining characteristic of their winning streak, validating the strategic changes implemented by the coaching staff.
| Defensive Stat | Charlotte Hornets | New Orleans Pelicans |
|---|---|---|
| Defensive Rebounds | 30 | 26 |
| Turnovers Forced | 12 | 7 |
| Blocked Shots | 9 | 4 |
| Steals | 8 | 5 |
To Conclude
With their seventh consecutive victory secured by overcoming the Pelicans 102-95, the Hornets continue to build momentum as the season progresses. Their resilience and teamwork remain on full display, signaling that Charlotte is a force to be reckoned with in the Eastern Conference. As the Hornets look ahead to upcoming matchups, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if this winning streak can be sustained. Stay tuned to 105.3 RnB for all the latest updates and in-depth coverage of the Hornets’ journey this season.
