Mon Nov 04 02:10:00 UTC 2024: ## Hawks Soar Past Pelicans Despite Williamson Absence
**New Orleans, LA** – The Atlanta Hawks, led by Jalen Johnson’s 29 points, snapped a four-game losing streak with a convincing 126-111 victory over the depleted New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday night. The Pelicans were without star forward Zion Williamson, who was ruled out pre-game with right hamstring tightness.
Brandon Ingram, the Pelicans’ only usual starter in uniform, put up a valiant effort with 32 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Hawks’ balanced attack. Trae Young added 23 points for Atlanta, while former Pelican Dyson Daniels, returning from injury, chipped in with 16 points. Larry Nance Jr. also had a standout performance with 14 points against his former team, even blowing a kiss to the Pelicans’ bench after hitting a crucial three-pointer.
The Pelicans were also missing starters Dejounte Murray, CJ McCollum, and Herb Jones, as well as key reserve Trey Murphy III. The Hawks were without their own starting forward De’Andre Hunter and several other key rotation players due to injuries.
Despite the absences, the Pelicans’ young reserves hustled but lacked the firepower to keep pace with Atlanta. Jordan Hawkins, filling in as a starter, led the bench scoring with 19 points, while Brandon Boston Jr. and Jamal Cain each added 14 points.
The Hawks pulled away for good in the middle of the fourth quarter with a decisive 14-0 run, capped off by three dunks from Jalen Johnson, that put them comfortably ahead at 116-97. The Hawks dominated the paint, outscoring the Pelicans 66-32.
The Hawks will look to continue their momentum as they host the defending champion Boston Celtics on Monday night. The Pelicans, meanwhile, will face the Portland Trail Blazers in the second of a back-to-back home game.
First Piper 