Trey Murphy III’s 28 points combined with Zion Williamson’s 27 points led the New Orleans Pelicans to secure their fourth consecutive win, defeating the Atlanta Hawks with a score of 116-103 in a game hosted on Sunday.

Murphy showcased a remarkable 20-point display in the initial half, aiding New Orleans in establishing a commanding 20-point advantage that proved insurmountable for the Hawks. He showcased impressive accuracy, going 10-for-18 from the field with six successful 3-pointers and securing seven rebounds. Murphy has achieved scoring 26 or more points in four of his last six games.

While Williamson initially had a slow start with just eight points in the first half, he eventually totaled his 35th game of the season with 20 or more points. His performance included shooting 10-for-14, in addition to contributing six rebounds, seven assists, and two blocks.

Securing this victory enabled the Pelicans to split the two-game season series with Atlanta, as well as sweep their three-game journey on the road.

Bogdan Bogdanovic spearheaded Atlanta’s offense with 25 points, showcasing his prowess with seven successful 3-pointers, while Dejounte Murray contributed 23 points and 11 assists. Clint Capela concluded the game with 18 points and 14 rebounds, marking his 26th double-double of the season.

CJ McCollum of New Orleans also made a significant impact by adding 20 points to the team’s tally.

The Pelicans steadily built their lead and enjoyed a 20-point advantage after a layup by Larry Nance Jr. extended their lead to 44-24 with 5:32 remaining in the first half. Despite Atlanta’s efforts, including Bogdanovic’s two successful 3-pointers, the Hawks managed to reduce the deficit to 53-42 by the halftime break.

Although New Orleans reached a peak lead of 22 points in the third quarter, Atlanta managed to narrow the margin to 80-65 with a buzzer-beating 3-pointer from Saddiq Bey.

Unfortunately, Bey suffered a left knee hyperextension with 10:41 left in the final quarter, forcing him to exit the game. The Hawks were already missing key players such as Jalen Johnson (right ankle sprain), Onyeka Okongwu (left big toe sprain), and the team’s top scorer Trae Young (finger ligament surgery).

Despite their challenges with limited players, Atlanta struggled to mount a significant comeback in the closing period.

Atlanta will kick off a five-game run on the road on Wednesday in Portland, while New Orleans will return home to initiate a series of three games against Cleveland on the same day.