The Memphis Grizzlies fell 114–106 to the New Orleans Pelicans Friday night in New Orleans. The Pelicans outscored Memphis 35–15 in the third quarter — the decisive stretch of the game — flipping a tight contest into a lead they never relinquished. New Orleans improved to 13–37 on the season, while Memphis dropped to 18–28.
Derik Queen led the Pelicans with 22 points, nine rebounds and seven assists, playing a key role in the third-quarter surge. Saddiq Bey also scored 22 points and Zion Williamson added 21, giving New Orleans a balanced scoring attack. Jose Alvarado knocked down multiple 3-pointers in the big third quarter that ultimately swung momentum.
For Memphis, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Cam Spencer each scored 16 points, while Cedric Coward and Vince Williams Jr. chipped in 13 apiece. The Grizzlies shot just one of 11 from three in the third and struggled to regain traction after falling behind. Turnovers also hurt Memphis, as they coughed the ball up 19 times in the loss.
Next up: Timberwolves at Memphis Grizzlies Saturday night (1/31) at 7:00 p.m. on 92.9 FM ESPN