Zion Williamson dominates the paint in New Orleans Pelicans win over Atlanta Hawks

Zion Williamson was a beast in the paint, and his efficient night led the New Orleans Pelicans to a 116-103 victory over the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena.

Big Z has been on a tear recently with his efficient play and he is on a mission to dominate each game following his All-Star snub. The former Duke Blue Devil stated that he would participate in the Dunk Contest if he made the All-Star team, so he wants to prove that it was a mistake for him to not make the big game this season.

In this contest he shot an efficient 10/14 to finish with 27 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists. Trey Murphy III scored 28 points off the bench and hit 6 triples in the process. CJ McCollum had 20 points with 4 made three pointers but Brandon Ingram struggled in this one, recording just 7 points but salvaging his line with 7 rebounds and 10 assists.

Dejounte Murray gave it his all, finishing with 23 points and 11 assists. Bogdan Bogdanovic hit 7 three pointers and ended with a team high 25 points. Clint Capela recorded 18 points and 14 rebounds while Saddiq Bey scored 14 points before leaving the game due to a knee injury.

New Orleans improves to 39-25 with this win and remain the 5th seed in the West. The Pelicans are quietly sneaking up on the Clippers, as they are now just 2.5 games away from overtaking them for the 4th seed. This team is on fire right now, winning 4 in a row and going 7-3 over their last 10 games. They’ll look to keep up this momentum on Wednesday against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Atlanta drops to 29-35 with this loss and sits as the 10th seed out East. They are doing their best to stay afloat without Trae Young, going 5-5 over their last 10 games. Their next matchup will be on Wednesday against the Portland Trail Blazers.