Key Takeaways:
- Jeremiah Fears produced 22 points, a career-best 13 assists, and eight rebounds as the Pelicans defeated the Kings 132-120
- The New Orleans bench contributed 41 points compared to just eight from Sacramento’s reserves, sealing their first win under coach Jamahl Mosley
- Darius Acuff Jr. delivered a career-high 34 points and 12 assists for Sacramento, but the Kings suffered their fifth consecutive loss
Match Summary
Jeremiah Fears shone for New Orleans on Thursday night, steering the Pelicans to a 132-120 victory against the Sacramento Kings at home. Fears, instrumental in the backcourt, tallied 22 points, 13 assists – a new career high – and eight rebounds, helping his side secure their first win of the season under newly appointed head coach Jamahl Mosley.
Absent key players, with Jordan Poole (ankle) and Dejounte Murray (birth of child) sidelined, Fears’s performance proved crucial for New Orleans.
got it done
#Pelicans | @HancockWhitney https://t.co/pBEyHISTQI
— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) October 30, 2026
Bench Impact and Team Performances
Trey Murphy III chipped in 18 points, while Zion Williamson was particularly efficient, recording 22 points from 10-of-12 shooting, all from inside the paint. The Pelicans’ reserves outperformed their Sacramento counterparts, posting 41 points compared to just eight for the Kings’ bench.
For Sacramento, rookie Darius Acuff Jr. notched a personal best, scoring 34 points and providing 12 assists. Domantas Sabonis, who led the NBA in rebounding at 16.5 per game entering the contest, collected 15 rebounds, contributed seven assists, but also committed seven turnovers. Turnovers proved costly for the Kings, who finished with 25 for the contest.
Key Moments and Game Progression
New Orleans took control late in the first half thanks to two free throws from Murphy that made it 55-54 with 1:45 remaining in the half. The Pelicans then carried a 63-61 advantage into the interval.
A decisive 16-2 run in the third quarter opened up the game for New Orleans, with Williamson adding six points and Murphy five during that key stretch. From there, the Pelicans maintained their lead and closed out the win.
Next Fixtures
- The Kings will visit Memphis on Saturday night
- The Pelicans will host Atlanta on Saturday night
