Dallas mavericks new orleans pelicans
A Southwest Division rivalry!
The Dallas Mavericks and New Orleans Pelicans have a long history of competition, dating back to the Pelicans' relocation from Charlotte, North Carolina to New Orleans in 2002. Here are some interesting facts about their rivalry:
- Early years: The Mavericks and Pelicans have played each other 64 times, with the Mavericks holding a slight edge (34-30).
- Luka Doncic era: Since Luka Doncic joined the Mavericks in 2018, the team has gone 12-6 against the Pelicans, with Doncic averaging 24.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game against them.
- Zion Williamson: The Pelicans' star rookie Zion Williamson has had some impressive performances against the Mavericks, including a 35-point, 12-rebound game in his NBA debut.
- Close games: The Mavericks and Pelicans have played several close games in recent years, with 14 of their last 20 meetings being decided by single digits.
- Playoff history: The two teams have met in the playoffs once, in the 2008 Western Conference First Round, which the Mavericks won 4-1.
Some notable games in their rivalry include:
- March 2019: Luka Doncic scores 38 points, including 14 in the fourth quarter, to lead the Mavericks to a 127-123 win in overtime.
- January 2020: Zion Williamson makes his NBA debut and scores 22 points, but the Mavericks still win 123-116.
- February 2022: The Mavericks come back from a 14-point deficit to win 125-124 in overtime, with Luka Doncic scoring 34 points.
The rivalry between the Mavericks and Pelicans is expected to continue to be intense and competitive in the coming years, with both teams vying for playoff spots in the Western Conference.