December 19th - The Pelicans rallied from a large lead to defeat the Rockets 133-128 . The Pelicans completed a stunning 25- point comeback and extended their winning streak to three games. The Rockets, on the other hand, suffered a blowout loss after leading by a large margin, exposing their lack of consistency in crucial moments.

Durant was on fire in the first quarter, scoring 13 points and hitting 3 three-pointers, leading his team to gradually gain the upper hand in the offensive battle, with the Rockets leading 33-24 . The Rockets continued their offensive onslaught in the second quarter, with Shen Jing extending the lead to over 20 points. At halftime, the Rockets led by a large margin of 67-45 .

After switching sides, the Pelicans trailed by as many as 25 points. In the crucial moments, the Pelicans narrowed the gap to 16 points late in the quarter. Despite Shen Jing contributing 12 points in the quarter, the Rockets entered the final quarter with a 99-83 lead. In the fourth quarter, Beal scored 11 points and Murphy's key shot quickly closed the gap. Before the end of regulation time, the Pelicans successfully tied the score at 119 , forcing overtime.

In overtime, Murphy III and Jones scored consecutively, while Quinn provided crucial support on the rebounding and defensive ends. Although Durant and Shen Jing tried their best to keep the Rockets afloat, they lacked the finishing touch in key moments. Ultimately, the Pelicans secured a 133-128 victory in overtime .

Rockets player statistics

Durant 32 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists; Shen Jing 28 points, 11 rebounds , 8 assists; Thompson 23 points , 6 rebounds, 4 assists; Smith 12 points, 12 rebounds, 2 assists; Sheppard 11 points , 4 rebounds , 7 assists; Okogie 10 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists; Adams 6 points, 10 rebounds , 3 assists .

Pelicans player statistics

Beal had 29 points, 9 rebounds , and 1 assist; Murphy III had 27 points, 3 rebounds , and 2 assists; Jones had 18 points , 3 rebounds , and 3 assists; Quinn had 16 points, 12 rebounds , and 3 assists; Poole had 15 points , 1 rebound , and 2 assists; Williamson had 9 points , 3 rebounds, and 5 assists; Fells had 9 points , 3 rebounds, and 4 assists; Alvarado had 7 points , 3 rebounds, and 6 assists .