The New Orleans Pelicans overcame the absences of several key players, a season-high 22 turnovers and a whistle that clearly favored Shai Gilgeous-Alexander above all others to beat the Oklahoma City Thunder, 105-101.
Two players, though, propelled the home team across the finish line.
Zion Williamson, who put everyone on triple-double watch following a 4-point, 4-rebound and 3-assist first quarter, carried the Pelicans offensively. The player of the game was the best scoring option and playmaker for New Orleans, weaving through multiple OKC defenders while taking contact to still achieve his objective. However, the referees saw things differently because they sent him to the free throw line only once.