NBA: Zion Williamson helps Pelicans nab win in return against Bulls

Zion Williamson made a triumphant return to the New Orleans Pelicans after missing six games, showing his teammates exactly what they’ve been missing. In Sunday’s matchup against the Chicago Bulls, Williamson contributed 18 points and six rebounds to help secure a 114-104 victory, marking the Pelicans’ second consecutive win.

Trey Murphy III led the team with 20 points, while rookies Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen also made significant contributions. Murphy and Fears both tied for the team high in scoring, while Queen grabbed eight rebounds and dished out a game-high six assists. Williamson’s return was a much-needed boost for the Pelicans, who had struggled with a 16-17 record before this win.

The Pelicans' offense started slow, with Williamson scoring just three points in the first quarter. However, he sparked New Orleans' offense late in the second quarter, scoring eight of the team’s final 11 points of the half, which helped them take the lead. Murphy, who had been on a hot streak, recorded a double-double with 20 points and 10 rebounds. He was joined by Jordan Poole, who added 16 points and helped the Pelicans maintain control in the second half.

Chicago struggled with their shooting, particularly from beyond the arc. Coby White led the Bulls with 20 points but had a tough night shooting, finishing 1-for-10 from three-point range. White added five rebounds and five assists, but his shooting struggles were a key factor in Chicago's fourth consecutive home loss. Nikola Vucevic, who finished with 12 points and eight rebounds, helped keep the game competitive with two late three-pointers, while Kevin Huerter contributed 16 points off the bench, including four three-pointers.

Despite strong individual performances, the Bulls were unable to overcome the Pelicans, who have now won back-to-back games for the first time in nearly a month. New Orleans will look to build on this momentum as they continue their road trip. -Field Level Media/Reuters