New Orleans Pelicans vs Dallas Mavericks — 129:111, NBA

New Orleans pulled away for a 129-111 win over Dallas, using elite efficiency to control the game. The Pelicans shot 37-of-60 from the field (62.0%) and consistently generated quality looks, finishing with 31 assists and 57 rebounds to set the tone on both ends. Zion Williamson led New Orleans with 27 points, repeatedly pressuring the rim and forcing the Mavericks to collapse, which opened space for others. Saddiq Bey added 23 points as the Pelicans’ ball movement produced clean perimeter chances and timely scoring bursts. New Orleans’ ability to convert at a high rate outweighed Dallas’ advantage from three-point range. Dallas got a big night from Naji Marshall, who scored 32 points to keep the Mavericks competitive early, and C. Flagg chipped in 21 with P.J. Washington adding 18. The Mavericks hit 14 threes on 39 attempts and totaled 27 assists, but they couldn’t match New Orleans’ overall shot-making (46.0% on 30-of-65 shooting) or keep pace on the glass (51 rebounds). The result underscores New Orleans’ offensive ceiling when it pairs efficient finishing with high-level playmaking, while Dallas will look to tighten up its interior defense and rebounding to avoid giving opponents extra possessions and high-percentage shots. Despite strong individual scoring, the Mavericks couldn’t sustain enough stops to threaten late.