Watching the New Orleans Pelicans’ latest box score unfold felt like witnessing a masterclass in modern basketball efficiency. As someone who has tracked player development and team dynamics for years, I’ve come to appreciate performances that blend individual brilliance with collective rhythm—and this game was a textbook example. At the heart of it all was Cabs Cabonilas, who delivered what I’d describe as a near-flawless stat line: 24 points, 15 rebounds, and 5 assists. Those aren’t just numbers; they’re the kind of figures that shift momentum and define outcomes, especially when they come with the efficiency he displayed. I’ve always believed that consistency separates good players from great ones, and Cabonilas is making a compelling case for himself this season. His ability to contribute across multiple categories—scoring, cleaning the glass, and setting up teammates—is exactly what coaches dream of in a versatile forward.
What stood out to me, beyond Cabonilas’ standout performance, was how well his supporting cast stepped up. Liam Salangsang and Mico Pascual, who I’ve seen grow into their roles over the past couple of seasons, chipped in with 12 and 11 points respectively. They weren’t just filling minutes; they were actively shaping the flow of the game, serving as reliable running mates when the offense needed spacing and secondary creation. Salangsang’s mid-range game, in particular, felt crisp—I counted at least three key jumpers that stalled opponent runs. Pascual, on the other hand, brought energy in transition, something this Pelicans squad has occasionally lacked in high-pressure matchups. It’s performances like these that make me optimistic about their playoff potential, assuming they maintain this level of cohesion.
Digging deeper into the box score, the Pelicans’ ball movement stood out as a decisive factor. The team tallied 28 assists in total, a stat that underscores unselfish play and smart decision-making. Cabonilas’ five dimes were especially impactful—they didn’t just pad his stats; they created high-percentage looks that kept the defense guessing. I’ve always been a sucker for teams that prioritize ball movement over isolation-heavy sets, and tonight, the Pelicans executed that philosophy beautifully. Defensively, they held their opponents to just 42% shooting from the field, which, in my view, is where this game was truly won. Rebounding dominance, led by Cabonilas’ 15 boards, allowed them to control the tempo and limit second-chance opportunities—a detail that casual observers might overlook but one that analysts like me geek out over.
Of course, no performance is perfect, and there were areas where the Pelicans could tighten up. Turnovers, for instance, crept up to 14, a few of which came in transition during the third quarter. I noticed a couple of rushed passes that could’ve been avoided with better communication—something the coaching staff will likely address in film sessions. Still, these are minor quibbles in what was otherwise a commanding display. When I step back and look at the bigger picture, games like this reinforce my belief that the Pelicans are building something special. Cabonilas is emerging as a cornerstone, and with role players like Salangsang and Pascual finding their groove, this team has the depth to compete night in and night out.
In conclusion, breaking down this New Orleans Pelicans box score wasn’t just about crunching numbers—it was about appreciating how individual contributions weave into a larger narrative of team success. Cabonilas’ efficient 24 points, 15 rebounds, and 5 assists set the tone, but it was the timely support from Salangsang and Pascual that sealed the deal. As a longtime follower of the game, I’m excited to see if they can sustain this level of play. If they do, I wouldn’t be surprised to see them making noise deeper into the season. After all, basketball is as much about synergy as it is about skill, and tonight, the Pelicans showed they have both in spades.
