Utah JazzOpen full analysis
New Orleans PelicansOpen full analysis
The New Orleans Pelicans defeated the Utah Jazz 156–137 on April 7 at Smoothie King Center, a decisive 19-point victory that saw the home team exceed the Vegas total line of 242.5 combined points. J. Fears led New Orleans with 40 points while J. Poole added 34, propelling the Pelicans to a 57.5 percent field-goal rate and 14 three-pointers made. Utah's K. Chandler paced the Jazz with 31 points and B. Mbeng contributed 26, but the visitors shot only 51 percent and made just 10 threes despite 38 assists. New Orleans dominated defensively with a 113.6 defensive rating compared to Utah's 127.7, while the Pelicans' third quarter proved pivotal—they outscored the Jazz 50–27 in that frame to seize control. Both teams committed 16 turnovers, but New Orleans's 15 steals and superior offensive efficiency (127.7 rating) proved decisive. The Pelicans' offensive firepower positions them favorably in the playoff race.
