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Pelicans Rally from 18 Down to Defeat Clippers

3/19/2026

23 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Pelicans defeated the Clippers 124-109 on March 18, overcoming an 18-point deficit.
Saddiq Bey and Kawhi Leonard each scored 25 points.
Dejounte Murray contributed 17 points and 11 assists for the Pelicans.
New Orleans outscored Los Angeles 70-45 in the second and third quarters.
The Clippers are 34-35 after three straight losses.

History

Historical Context

The NBA expanded its playoff format in 1984, increasing the number of participating teams from 12 to 16 and changing the first round to a best-of-five series. This shift significantly boosted fan engagement, with attendance rising by 20%. The competitive spirit fostered by this expansion is evident in recent games, such as the Pelicans' comeback against the Clippers, highlighting the evolving dynamics of playoff strategies.

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Story summary

The Pelicans defeated the Clippers 124-109 on March 18, overcoming an 18-point deficit.
Saddiq Bey and Kawhi Leonard each scored 25 points.
Dejounte Murray contributed 17 points and 11 assists for the Pelicans.
New Orleans outscored Los Angeles 70-45 in the second and third quarters.
The Clippers are 34-35 after three straight losses.

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