Pelicans Snap Seven-Game Losing Streak vs. Blazers

New Orleans Pelicans guard Jordan Poole scored 22 points in his return from an 18-game absence due to a left quadriceps injury, helping the team snap a seven-game losing streak with a 143-120 victory over the short-handed Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday night at the Smoothie King Center.

The win improved the Pelicans' record to 4-22, marking only their second victory since James Borrego took over as interim head coach following Willie Green's firing on November 15. Portland, limited to 10 available players, fell to 5-13 and suffered its sixth loss in seven games.

Trey Murphy III led New Orleans with 24 points, while Bryce McGowens tied his career high with 23 points on 8-of-11 shooting, including all five of his three-point attempts. Rookies Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen also contributed significantly, scoring 19 and 17 points, respectively, as six Pelicans players reached double figures. The team set a franchise record by scoring 86 points in the paint, dominating the interior throughout the contest.

For Portland, Shaedon Sharpe paced the scoring with 21 points, supported by Sidy Cissoko's 20 points. Jerami Grant and Deni Avdija added 16 points each, but the Blazers...