New Orleans Pelicans vs 76ers Match Player Stats
The new orleans pelicans vs 76ers match player stats from February 22, 2026, tell the story of an impressive New Orleans performance at the Smoothie King Center. The Pelicans defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 126-111, delivering a strong offensive display in front of 16,426 spectators. Although Philadelphia entered the contest with a better season record, New Orleans controlled the second half, produced 50% shooting from three-point range, and created a decisive advantage in the third quarter. Jordan Poole led the Pelicans with 23 points, while Zion Williamson contributed 21 points and eight assists. For Philadelphia, Tyrese Maxey finished with 27 points, seven assists, and five steals, but his individual production was not enough to prevent the defeat.
This matchup offered several interesting statistical contrasts. Philadelphia collected 47 rebounds and recorded 10 steals, but struggled with its overall shooting efficiency. New Orleans made 40 of 81 field-goal attempts, compared with Philadelphia’s 36 of 94. The Pelicans also connected on 17 three-pointers, five more than their opponents. Those differences became especially important during the second half, when New Orleans turned a relatively competitive game into a comfortable 15-point victory.
The result also brought the teams’ 2025-26 season series to a 1-1 tie. Philadelphia had won their first meeting 124-114 on February 1, but New Orleans responded with a convincing home victory in the rematch. Looking beyond the final score reveals how individual contributions, shooting percentages, ball movement, rebounding, and defensive activity shaped the outcome.
New Orleans Pelicans vs 76ers Match Player Stats: Game Overview
The February 22 meeting was an important statistical comparison between two teams with different season records and different levels of performance throughout the game.
Philadelphia arrived with a 30-26 record, while New Orleans entered at 16-42. The 76ers also had a stronger away record, standing at 15-11 before this contest. New Orleans had recorded a 10-21 home record, making this result particularly valuable for a team looking to produce more consistent performances in front of its supporters.
Despite those differences, the Pelicans found their offensive rhythm and won by 15 points.
Complete Match Information
| Match Detail | Information |
| Sport | NBA Basketball |
| Teams | Philadelphia 76ers vs. New Orleans Pelicans |
| Match Date | February 22, 2026 |
| Match Time | 5:00 AM |
| Venue | Smoothie King Center |
| Location | New Orleans, Louisiana |
| Attendance | 16,426 |
| Game ID | 401810667 |
| Game Status | Final |
| Philadelphia Score | 111 |
| New Orleans Score | 126 |
| Winner | New Orleans Pelicans |
| Winning Margin | 15 points |
| Philadelphia Record | 30-26 |
| New Orleans Record | 16-42 |
| Season Series | Tied 1-1 |
The game was played at the Smoothie King Center, where New Orleans used its home-court opportunity to produce one of its more effective offensive performances of the season.
The final score does not fully explain the difference between the teams. Philadelphia scored 65 points in the first half, while New Orleans recorded 57. At that stage, the 76ers held an eight-point advantage.
However, the second half changed everything.
New Orleans scored 69 points after halftime, while Philadelphia managed only 46. This 23-point difference in second-half scoring completely reversed the first-half situation.
That turnaround is one of the most important details when examining this game.
Final Score Comparison
| Team | First Half | Second Half | Final Score |
| Philadelphia 76ers | 65 | 46 | 111 |
| New Orleans Pelicans | 57 | 69 | 126 |
The Pelicans demonstrated that a difficult first half did not prevent them from finding better offensive solutions later.
Their third-quarter performance was especially important because it allowed them to move ahead and establish control before the final period.
Quarter-by-Quarter Scoring Breakdown
Basketball games can change quickly, and this matchup provides a useful example of why quarter-by-quarter scoring deserves attention.
Philadelphia had the stronger opening half, but New Orleans gradually improved its offensive execution. The third quarter became the decisive period, with the Pelicans scoring 40 points.
First Quarter: Philadelphia Starts Strong
Philadelphia opened the contest with 29 points, compared with 24 from New Orleans.
The five-point difference gave the 76ers an early advantage and suggested that they were finding better scoring opportunities during the opening minutes.
Philadelphia’s offense benefited from the individual production of Tyrese Maxey and Kelly Oubre Jr. Both players eventually finished among the team’s leading scorers.
New Orleans, meanwhile, scored 24 points. Although the Pelicans did not lead the opening quarter, they remained close enough to avoid allowing Philadelphia to establish an overwhelming early advantage.
The opening period was competitive, but Philadelphia had the better result.
| Team | First Quarter |
| Philadelphia 76ers | 29 |
| New Orleans Pelicans | 24 |
Second Quarter: Philadelphia Extends Its Advantage
The second quarter was Philadelphia’s strongest scoring period.
The 76ers produced 36 points, while New Orleans responded with 33. Philadelphia therefore won the quarter by three points and extended its overall lead.
At halftime, the scoreboard showed Philadelphia ahead 65-57.
The 76ers had scored 65 points in two quarters, which represented a productive offensive start. However, their first-half advantage did not guarantee a victory.
New Orleans remained within eight points, giving the home team an opportunity to change the game’s direction after the break.
The Pelicans needed better shooting efficiency and stronger offensive coordination to overcome Philadelphia’s advantage.
| Team | Second Quarter |
| Philadelphia 76ers | 36 |
| New Orleans Pelicans | 33 |
Third Quarter: New Orleans Takes Control
The third quarter was the turning point.
New Orleans scored 40 points, its highest total in any quarter of the game. Philadelphia managed only 26.
This created a 14-point quarter advantage for the Pelicans.
The scoring difference was significant because New Orleans not only recovered its halftime deficit but also established a lead heading into the final period.
Several factors help explain this turnaround:
- New Orleans finished with 49% overall field-goal shooting.
- The Pelicans made 50% of their three-point attempts.
- Zion Williamson contributed scoring and playmaking.
- Jordan Poole provided an important scoring contribution.
- New Orleans finished with 25 assists, demonstrating effective ball movement.
The Pelicans’ third-quarter production was not simply the result of one player having a good stretch. Their overall offensive numbers indicate that several players contributed to the improvement.
Philadelphia struggled to match that efficiency.
The 76ers still had individual scoring contributions, but their 38% overall shooting percentage became a significant disadvantage.
| Team | Third Quarter |
| Philadelphia 76ers | 26 |
| New Orleans Pelicans | 40 |
Fourth Quarter: Pelicans Protect Their Lead
New Orleans entered the fourth quarter with momentum and maintained its advantage.
The Pelicans scored 29 points in the final period, while Philadelphia recorded 20.
That nine-point quarter advantage increased the final winning margin.
Philadelphia needed a substantial scoring response to make the contest competitive again. However, the 76ers could not produce enough efficient offense to close the gap.
New Orleans continued to score and protected its lead until the final result was established.
| Team | Fourth Quarter |
| Philadelphia 76ers | 20 |
| New Orleans Pelicans | 29 |
Complete Quarter Score Table
| Quarter | Philadelphia | New Orleans |
| Q1 | 29 | 24 |
| Q2 | 36 | 33 |
| Q3 | 26 | 40 |
| Q4 | 20 | 29 |
| Total | 111 | 126 |
The biggest statistical difference occurred in the third quarter. New Orleans outscored Philadelphia by 14 points during that period and followed it with another strong fourth quarter.
This explains why the Pelicans could overcome an eight-point halftime deficit and finish with a 15-point victory.
New Orleans Pelicans Player Stats and Individual Performances
New Orleans produced a balanced offensive performance, with three players reaching at least 20 points.
Jordan Poole led the team with 23 points, followed by Zion Williamson with 21 and Saddiq Bey with 20.
The Pelicans also received valuable contributions in rebounding, assists, and shot-blocking.
Jordan Poole Leads New Orleans With 23 Points
Jordan Poole was the leading scorer for New Orleans, finishing with 23 points.
His scoring contribution helped the Pelicans maintain offensive pressure against a Philadelphia team that had entered the game with a stronger season record.
Poole’s performance was particularly important because New Orleans needed additional scoring support alongside its established offensive options.
Although he was listed among the bench players in the supplied starting lineup information, he finished as the team’s highest scorer.
This distinction highlights the value of bench production in NBA basketball.
A team’s starting lineup may establish its initial offensive structure, but players entering from the bench can change the rhythm of a game. Poole’s 23-point contribution demonstrates how important that additional scoring can become.
His performance also helped New Orleans avoid relying exclusively on Zion Williamson for offensive production.
Zion Williamson Delivers an All-Around Performance
Zion Williamson recorded:
- 21 points
- 8 assists
- 3 steals
- +24 plus/minus
Williamson’s contribution extended beyond scoring.
His eight assists made him the leading playmaker for New Orleans. That figure indicates how effectively he contributed to creating scoring opportunities for teammates.
He also recorded three steals, giving him the team’s highest individual total in that category.
His plus/minus of +24 was another important statistic.
Plus/minus measures the difference between a team’s points scored and points allowed while a particular player is on the court. A positive figure means the team outscored its opponent during those minutes.
Williamson’s +24 was the highest among New Orleans players in the supplied data.
This does not mean that he personally scored 24 more points than Philadelphia. Instead, it shows that New Orleans performed particularly well during his time on the floor.
His combination of scoring, playmaking, defensive activity, and overall impact made him one of the most influential players in the matchup.
Saddiq Bey Adds 20 Points
Saddiq Bey finished with 20 points, making him the third New Orleans player to reach the 20-point mark.
His contribution gave the Pelicans another dependable scoring option.
Having three players score at least 20 points created a difficult defensive challenge for Philadelphia.
The 76ers could not focus entirely on Williamson because Poole and Bey also provided substantial offensive production.
Bey’s scoring was especially useful in a game where New Orleans made 40 field goals.
His 20-point performance contributed to the balanced scoring distribution that helped the Pelicans win.
DeAndre Jordan Controls the Rebounding and Rim Protection
DeAndre Jordan produced one of the most important interior performances of the game.
His recorded statistics included:
- 15 rebounds
- 4 blocks
Jordan led all players in the supplied data in both categories.
His 15 rebounds were particularly valuable because Philadelphia also performed reasonably well on the glass, collecting 47 total rebounds.
New Orleans finished with 49.
The two-rebound difference was not enormous, but Jordan’s individual contribution helped the Pelicans remain competitive around the basket.
His four blocks also gave New Orleans an important defensive presence.
Blocks can influence more than the number of shots directly prevented. They can discourage opponents from attacking the basket and force offensive players to consider alternative scoring opportunities.
Jordan’s performance provided New Orleans with a strong interior presence while the team’s perimeter players focused on offensive production.
New Orleans Top Player Statistics
| Player | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Steals | Blocks |
| Jordan Poole | 23 | Not provided | Not provided | Not provided | Not provided |
| Zion Williamson | 21 | Not provided | 8 | 3 | Not provided |
| Saddiq Bey | 20 | Not provided | Not provided | Not provided | Not provided |
| DeAndre Jordan | Not provided | 15 | Not provided | Not provided | 4 |
The table includes only individual figures confirmed in the supplied game information. Unavailable player statistics have not been estimated.
New Orleans Starting Lineup
The Pelicans started the following players:
- Herbert Jones
- Zion Williamson
- Saddiq Bey
- DeAndre Jordan
- Derik Queen
The starting lineup provided a combination of scoring, interior defense, rebounding, and perimeter play.
Williamson and Bey supplied major offensive production, while Jordan contributed strongly around the basket.
New Orleans Bench Contributions
The supplied bench list included:
- Karlo Matkovic
- Jordan Poole
- Bryce McGowens
- Jordan Hawkins
- Jeremiah Fears
- Kevon Looney
Poole’s 23 points were particularly significant because he led the entire team in scoring despite being listed as a reserve.
Kevon Looney was listed as a DNP, meaning he did not play because of the coach’s decision.
This distinction matters when interpreting the team roster. A player appearing on the available roster does not necessarily mean that he participated in the game.
Philadelphia 76ers Player Stats and Individual Performances
Philadelphia lost the contest, but several players delivered productive individual performances.
Tyrese Maxey led the team in scoring and assists while also recording the highest number of steals among all players in the matchup.
Kelly Oubre Jr. provided another important scoring contribution, while VJ Edgecombe added 14 points.
Andre Drummond was Philadelphia’s leading rebounder.
Tyrese Maxey Leads Philadelphia With 27 Points
Tyrese Maxey was Philadelphia’s leading scorer with 27 points.
He also recorded:
- 7 assists
- 5 steals
His scoring total was the highest individual figure in the entire game.
Maxey’s seven assists demonstrated his importance as a playmaker, while his five steals highlighted his defensive activity.
Recording five steals in a single game is a notable individual contribution. It shows that Maxey was able to disrupt New Orleans possessions and create defensive opportunities for his team.
However, individual defensive statistics do not always translate into a team victory.
Philadelphia’s overall shooting performance remained inefficient. The 76ers converted only 38% of their field-goal attempts and 26% of their three-point attempts.
Even with Maxey producing 27 points, Philadelphia struggled to match New Orleans’ overall offensive efficiency.
His performance was therefore an example of strong individual production within a team defeat.
Kelly Oubre Jr. Scores 25 Points
Kelly Oubre Jr. finished with 25 points, making him Philadelphia’s second-leading scorer.
His contribution was important because he provided substantial offensive support alongside Maxey.
Together, Maxey and Oubre accounted for 52 of Philadelphia’s 111 points.
That represented almost half of the team’s total scoring.
Their combined production showed that Philadelphia had individual players capable of generating offense.
However, the 76ers needed additional scoring efficiency and more consistent contributions across the lineup to overcome New Orleans.
VJ Edgecombe Contributes 14 Points
VJ Edgecombe finished with 14 points.
Although his total was lower than the contributions from Maxey and Oubre, he provided another scoring option for Philadelphia.
A third player reaching double figures can help prevent an offense from becoming too dependent on its leading scorer.
Edgecombe’s 14 points were useful, but Philadelphia needed a more efficient team performance to compete with New Orleans’ 49% shooting.
Andre Drummond Leads Philadelphia in Rebounds
Andre Drummond collected 12 rebounds, the highest individual total for Philadelphia.
His performance helped the 76ers remain competitive in the rebounding category.
Philadelphia finished with 47 total rebounds, only two fewer than New Orleans.
Drummond’s contribution was particularly important because defensive and offensive rebounds can influence possession opportunities.
Offensive rebounds give a team another opportunity to score after a missed shot. Defensive rebounds help end an opponent’s possession and allow the team to transition into offense.
Philadelphia collected 12 offensive rebounds, compared with New Orleans’ 10.
This means the 76ers actually finished with an advantage in offensive rebounding, despite losing the overall rebounding comparison.
That detail is important because it shows that Philadelphia’s defeat was not simply the result of losing the battle on the glass.
The bigger difference came from shooting efficiency.
Dominick Barlow Provides Defensive Support
Dominick Barlow recorded two blocks, the highest individual blocking total among Philadelphia players in the supplied statistics.
His defensive contribution helped the 76ers challenge shots around the basket.
Barlow also appeared in Philadelphia’s starting lineup alongside Andre Drummond.
The presence of two interior players gave Philadelphia additional size, but New Orleans still produced an effective offensive performance.
Philadelphia Top Player Statistics
| Player | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Steals | Blocks |
| Tyrese Maxey | 27 | Not provided | 7 | 5 | Not provided |
| Kelly Oubre Jr. | 25 | Not provided | Not provided | Not provided | Not provided |
| VJ Edgecombe | 14 | Not provided | Not provided | Not provided | Not provided |
| Andre Drummond | Not provided | 12 | Not provided | Not provided | Not provided |
| Dominick Barlow | Not provided | Not provided | Not provided | Not provided | 2 |
These figures identify the leading statistical contributors without assigning unconfirmed totals to individual players.
Philadelphia Starting Lineup
Philadelphia started:
- Dominick Barlow
- Andre Drummond
- Kelly Oubre Jr.
- Tyrese Maxey
- VJ Edgecombe
The starting group featured Maxey as a major offensive option and Drummond as an important interior presence.
Oubre supplied additional scoring, while Barlow and Edgecombe contributed to the team’s overall lineup structure.
Philadelphia Bench Players
The supplied bench list included:
- Jabari Walker
- Justin Edwards
- Adem Bona
- Cameron Payne
- Quentin Grimes
- Tyrese Martin
- Trendon Watford
- Kyle Lowry
Jabari Walker recorded Philadelphia’s highest plus/minus at +5.
Trendon Watford and Kyle Lowry were listed as DNP players because of the coach’s decision.
A DNP designation should not be confused with an injury-related absence. The supplied information identifies the reason as a coaching decision.
Complete Team Statistics Comparison
The team statistics provide the clearest explanation of why New Orleans won.
Although Philadelphia recorded more steals and offensive rebounds, New Orleans was substantially more efficient from the field.
The Pelicans also produced more assists, total rebounds, blocks, and three-point field goals.
Full Team Box Score
| Statistical Category | Philadelphia 76ers | New Orleans Pelicans |
| Final Score | 111 | 126 |
| Field Goals | 36-94 | 40-81 |
| Field-Goal Percentage | 38% | 49% |
| Three-Pointers | 12-46 | 17-34 |
| Three-Point Percentage | 26% | 50% |
| Free Throws | 27-33 | 29-38 |
| Free-Throw Percentage | 82% | 76% |
| Total Rebounds | 47 | 49 |
| Offensive Rebounds | 12 | 10 |
| Defensive Rebounds | 35 | 39 |
| Assists | 19 | 25 |
| Turnovers | 10 | 14 |
| Steals | 10 | 5 |
| Blocks | 5 | 8 |
| Personal Fouls | 25 | 25 |
Several important conclusions emerge from these numbers.
First, New Orleans was considerably more accurate with its field-goal attempts.
Second, the Pelicans made more three-pointers despite attempting fewer shots from beyond the arc.
Third, Philadelphia’s advantage in steals and offensive rebounds did not compensate for its shooting difficulties.
Finally, New Orleans produced more assists, suggesting that its offense generated better collective scoring opportunities.
Shooting Efficiency: The Biggest Difference Between the Teams
Shooting efficiency was arguably the most important statistical factor in this matchup.
Philadelphia attempted 94 field goals and made 36.
New Orleans attempted 81 and made 40.
This means the Pelicans made four more field goals despite taking 13 fewer attempts.
The difference is particularly revealing because it demonstrates how a team can score more efficiently without needing as many shooting opportunities.
Field-Goal Shooting Comparison
| Team | Made | Attempted | Percentage |
| Philadelphia | 36 | 94 | 38% |
| New Orleans | 40 | 81 | 49% |
New Orleans had an 11-percentage-point advantage in field-goal accuracy.
That difference is substantial over a full NBA game.
Philadelphia needed more attempts to generate its scoring output, while New Orleans converted a higher percentage of its opportunities.
A high number of field-goal attempts does not automatically mean a team has a productive offense.
The quality and conversion rate of those attempts are equally important.
In this game, New Orleans was more effective at turning offensive possessions into successful shots.
Three-Point Shooting Gives New Orleans Another Advantage
The three-point statistics make the difference even clearer.
Philadelphia connected on 12 of 46 attempts, producing a 26% shooting percentage.
New Orleans made 17 of 34 attempts, finishing at 50%.
| Three-Point Statistic | Philadelphia | New Orleans |
| Three-Pointers Made | 12 | 17 |
| Three-Point Attempts | 46 | 34 |
| Three-Point Percentage | 26% | 50% |
The Pelicans made five more three-pointers while attempting 12 fewer shots.
Each successful three-pointer is worth three points, so the five additional makes represented 15 extra points from beyond the arc.
The difference in three-point shooting was therefore a major contributor to the final result.
Philadelphia’s 46 attempts indicate that the team regularly looked for opportunities from long range. However, its 26% conversion rate limited the value of those attempts.
New Orleans, by comparison, converted half of its three-point attempts.
That efficiency helped the Pelicans create separation on the scoreboard.
Free-Throw Shooting
Philadelphia performed better at the free-throw line in percentage terms.
The 76ers converted 27 of 33 attempts, finishing at 82%.
New Orleans made 29 of 38 attempts, recording 76%.
| Free-Throw Statistic | Philadelphia | New Orleans |
| Free Throws Made | 27 | 29 |
| Free Throws Attempted | 33 | 38 |
| Percentage | 82% | 76% |
Philadelphia had a six-percentage-point advantage in free-throw accuracy.
However, New Orleans attempted five more free throws and made two more.
This is an important distinction between percentage and total production.
A team can have a lower conversion percentage but still score more points from a particular category because it attempts more shots.
Philadelphia’s stronger free-throw percentage was a positive aspect of its performance, but it could not overcome the difference in field-goal and three-point efficiency.
Rebounding Analysis: A Competitive Battle Inside the Paint
Rebounding was one of the closer statistical categories.
New Orleans finished with 49 total rebounds, while Philadelphia collected 47.
The two-rebound difference indicates that neither team completely dominated the glass.
However, the distribution of those rebounds provides a more detailed picture.
Offensive Rebounds
Philadelphia recorded 12 offensive rebounds.
New Orleans finished with 10.
This gave the 76ers a two-rebound advantage in this category.
Offensive rebounds can be especially valuable because they create additional scoring opportunities after missed field goals.
Philadelphia’s 12 offensive rebounds suggest that it was able to recover a number of its own missed shots.
However, the 76ers did not convert those additional opportunities into enough efficient scoring.
Defensive Rebounds
New Orleans recorded 39 defensive rebounds, compared with Philadelphia’s 35.
This gave the Pelicans a four-rebound advantage.
Defensive rebounds are essential because they prevent the opposing team from extending possessions through second-chance opportunities.
New Orleans’ advantage in defensive rebounding helped the team finish Philadelphia’s offensive possessions and establish its own transition opportunities.
Rebounding Comparison
| Rebounding Category | Philadelphia | New Orleans |
| Offensive Rebounds | 12 | 10 |
| Defensive Rebounds | 35 | 39 |
| Total Rebounds | 47 | 49 |
The statistics show that Philadelphia performed better in offensive rebounding, while New Orleans was stronger on the defensive glass.
The Pelicans’ slight advantage in total rebounds was useful, but it was not the primary reason for the victory.
Shooting efficiency had a much larger influence on the final score.
Assists and Ball Movement
New Orleans recorded 25 assists, while Philadelphia finished with 19.
That six-assist difference provides another important explanation for the Pelicans’ offensive performance.
Assists measure passes that directly lead to successful field goals.
Although they do not capture every aspect of teamwork, they offer a useful indication of how frequently players create scoring opportunities for teammates.
New Orleans’ 25 assists suggest that the team generated more assisted baskets than Philadelphia.
Zion Williamson led the Pelicans with eight assists.
Tyrese Maxey led Philadelphia with seven.
Both players contributed significantly to their respective offenses, but the team totals favored New Orleans.
Why the Assist Difference Matters
A team with effective ball movement can create several advantages:
- It can move defenders away from their preferred positions.
- It can create open perimeter shooting opportunities.
- It can generate better passing angles near the basket.
- It can reduce dependence on individual isolation scoring.
- It can help distribute offensive responsibility across multiple players.
New Orleans finished with 17 successful three-pointers, and its 25 assists were consistent with a productive collective offensive performance.
Philadelphia’s 19 assists were not necessarily poor in isolation, but the difference became important when combined with its lower shooting percentage.
The Pelicans converted their offensive opportunities more effectively.
Defensive Statistics: Steals, Blocks, and Turnovers
Defense was another interesting part of the matchup because the two teams produced different strengths.
Philadelphia recorded more steals, while New Orleans finished with more blocks.
The Pelicans also committed more turnovers.
Steals: Philadelphia Wins the Category
Philadelphia recorded 10 steals, twice New Orleans’ total of five.
Tyrese Maxey led the game with five steals.
This was an impressive individual defensive contribution.
Steals can create transition opportunities and prevent opponents from completing offensive possessions.
Philadelphia’s ability to disrupt New Orleans’ ball movement was therefore a positive aspect of its defensive performance.
However, steals alone cannot determine defensive success.
A team must also limit shooting efficiency, protect the basket, and secure defensive rebounds.
Philadelphia struggled to accomplish those tasks consistently enough.
Blocks: New Orleans Protects the Basket
New Orleans recorded eight blocks, compared with Philadelphia’s five.
DeAndre Jordan led the Pelicans with four blocks.
Dominick Barlow recorded two for Philadelphia.
The Pelicans’ advantage in blocks reflected their stronger shot-blocking production around the basket.
This defensive activity may also have influenced Philadelphia’s willingness to attack the interior.
Blocks are only one measure of rim protection, but they provide useful information when evaluating how effectively a team challenged shots close to the basket.
Turnovers: Philadelphia Takes Better Care of the Ball
Philadelphia committed 10 turnovers.
New Orleans committed 14.
This was one of the categories where Philadelphia clearly performed better.
The 76ers had four fewer turnovers, meaning they surrendered possession less frequently.
Turnovers are important because they can remove scoring opportunities and provide opponents with additional offensive possessions.
From a ball-security perspective, Philadelphia’s performance was stronger.
However, the team still lost because its shooting efficiency was substantially lower.
This illustrates an important basketball principle: winning one or two statistical categories does not guarantee a victory.
Defensive and Possession Statistics
| Category | Philadelphia | New Orleans |
| Steals | 10 | 5 |
| Blocks | 5 | 8 |
| Turnovers | 10 | 14 |
| Personal Fouls | 25 | 25 |
The defensive comparison was mixed.
Philadelphia forced more steals and committed fewer turnovers. New Orleans produced more blocks and protected its defensive glass more effectively.
The Pelicans ultimately benefited from their ability to combine interior defense with much better shooting.
What Decided the Game for New Orleans?
The final result was influenced by several connected factors rather than one isolated performance.
New Orleans entered halftime behind but improved its offensive execution during the second half.
The Pelicans’ shooting efficiency, perimeter accuracy, and balanced scoring created the conditions for a comeback.
1. Superior Field-Goal Efficiency
New Orleans converted 49% of its field-goal attempts, while Philadelphia finished at 38%.
The Pelicans made four more field goals despite attempting 13 fewer shots.
That difference shows how important shot conversion was to the outcome.
2. Outstanding Three-Point Accuracy
New Orleans made 17 three-pointers at a 50% rate.
Philadelphia made only 12 at 26%.
The five additional three-point makes gave the Pelicans a meaningful scoring advantage.
3. Balanced Scoring Contributions
Jordan Poole scored 23 points.
Zion Williamson added 21.
Saddiq Bey contributed 20.
Having three players reach at least 20 points made New Orleans’ offense more difficult to defend.
Philadelphia also had strong individual performances from Maxey and Oubre, but the Pelicans’ top three scorers provided a balanced offensive foundation.
4. Strong Third-Quarter Execution
New Orleans scored 40 points in the third quarter.
Philadelphia scored 26.
This 14-point difference transformed the game.
The Pelicans entered the final period with an advantage and maintained their momentum.
5. More Effective Ball Movement
New Orleans recorded 25 assists compared with Philadelphia’s 19.
Williamson’s eight assists were especially important.
The team’s overall passing production helped support its efficient scoring performance.
6. Interior Defensive Contributions
DeAndre Jordan recorded 15 rebounds and four blocks.
His production helped New Orleans compete around the basket and limit Philadelphia’s interior scoring opportunities.
These factors combined to produce a 126-111 victory.
Why Philadelphia Lost Despite Strong Individual Performances
Philadelphia’s defeat is interesting because its leading players performed reasonably well.
Maxey scored 27 points, Oubre added 25, and Edgecombe contributed 14.
The 76ers also won the steals category and committed fewer turnovers.
So why did they lose?
The main explanation is that Philadelphia did not convert enough of its shooting opportunities.
Low Three-Point Conversion
The 76ers attempted 46 three-pointers but made only 12.
A 26% conversion rate limited the team’s ability to generate efficient perimeter scoring.
Although Philadelphia continued to attempt long-range shots, the results were not productive enough.
Lower Overall Shooting Percentage
Philadelphia finished with 38% field-goal accuracy.
New Orleans converted 49%.
That 11-percentage-point difference represented a substantial gap in offensive efficiency.
Limited Team Assists
Philadelphia recorded 19 assists.
While this figure was not extremely low, it was six fewer than New Orleans.
The difference suggests that the Pelicans generated more assisted scoring opportunities.
Second-Half Scoring Decline
Philadelphia scored 65 points in the first half but only 46 after halftime.
Its fourth-quarter total was just 20 points.
The decline was particularly damaging because New Orleans increased its scoring output after the break.
Philadelphia’s inability to maintain its first-half offensive production allowed the Pelicans to take control.
First Matchup vs. Second Matchup: Season Series Comparison
The February 22 result was the second meeting between these teams during the 2025-26 season.
Philadelphia won the first matchup on February 1, 2026.
The 76ers recorded a 124-114 victory.
New Orleans responded in the second meeting with a 126-111 win.
The two results left the season series tied at one victory apiece.
Head-to-Head Results
| Matchup | Date | Philadelphia | New Orleans | Winner |
| First Meeting | February 1, 2026 | 124 | 114 | Philadelphia |
| Second Meeting | February 22, 2026 | 111 | 126 | New Orleans |
The combined results demonstrate that both teams managed to win one game.
Philadelphia’s first victory came with a 10-point margin.
New Orleans’ response was even stronger, producing a 15-point winning margin.
What Changed in the Second Meeting?
The most noticeable difference in the second game was New Orleans’ shooting performance.
The Pelicans made 50% of their three-point attempts and 49% of their overall field goals.
Those numbers allowed them to overcome Philadelphia’s early lead.
The second matchup also demonstrated the importance of home-court performance.
New Orleans had entered the game with a 10-21 home record, but delivered a strong result in front of its supporters.
For Philadelphia, the rematch showed that having a stronger overall season record does not guarantee success in an individual matchup.
Plus/Minus Analysis: Which Players Had the Biggest On-Court Impact?
Plus/minus is a useful statistic for understanding how a team performs while a specific player is on the court.
It measures the difference between the team’s points scored and points allowed during that player’s playing time.
It should not be treated as a complete measure of individual ability because it is influenced by teammates, opponents, lineups, and game situations.
Nevertheless, it offers an additional perspective on this matchup.
Highest Plus/Minus for New Orleans
Zion Williamson recorded the highest plus/minus for New Orleans at +24.
This was a notable figure in a game where the Pelicans won by 15 points.
It indicates that New Orleans outscored Philadelphia by 24 points during Williamson’s time on the floor.
His contribution included 21 points, eight assists, and three steals.
The combination of these statistics provides a strong picture of his all-around performance.
Highest Plus/Minus for Philadelphia
Jabari Walker recorded Philadelphia’s highest plus/minus at +5.
This was the best figure among the 76ers players according to the supplied data.
His positive rating suggests that Philadelphia performed better than its overall game result during his minutes.
However, plus/minus does not necessarily identify the player who scored the most points or had the strongest individual statistical performance.
Maxey, for example, led Philadelphia in points, assists, and steals.
Plus/Minus Comparison
| Team | Player | Plus/Minus |
| Philadelphia 76ers | Jabari Walker | +5 |
| New Orleans Pelicans | Zion Williamson | +24 |
Williamson’s figure was considerably higher, reflecting New Orleans’ strong performance during his time on the court.
Starting Lineup Comparison
Starting lineups provide useful context when examining how teams approach a particular matchup.
Philadelphia and New Orleans used different combinations of players for this game.
Philadelphia Starting Five
| Position in Supplied Lineup | Player |
| 1 | Dominick Barlow |
| 2 | Andre Drummond |
| 3 | Kelly Oubre Jr. |
| 4 | Tyrese Maxey |
| 5 | VJ Edgecombe |
Philadelphia’s lineup featured a combination of perimeter scoring and interior size.
Maxey and Oubre were important offensive contributors.
Drummond provided rebounding support, while Barlow and Edgecombe completed the starting group.
New Orleans Starting Five
| Position in Supplied Lineup | Player |
| 1 | Herbert Jones |
| 2 | Zion Williamson |
| 3 | Saddiq Bey |
| 4 | DeAndre Jordan |
| 5 | Derik Queen |
New Orleans’ starting group featured Williamson and Bey as important scoring options.
DeAndre Jordan provided interior rebounding and shot-blocking.
Herbert Jones and Derik Queen completed the lineup.
Bench Impact Comparison
One of the most interesting details was Jordan Poole’s scoring contribution.
He was listed among the New Orleans bench players but finished as the team’s leading scorer with 23 points.
This illustrates why NBA analysis should include both starting and reserve players.
The starting lineup establishes the initial structure, but bench players can become decisive when they provide additional scoring or defensive support.
Philadelphia also had a positive plus/minus contribution from reserve player Jabari Walker.
Game Officials and Match Details
The supplied game information lists three officials for this matchup.
| Official | Name |
| Referee 1 | Scott Foster |
| Referee 2 | Danielle Scott |
| Referee 3 | Pat O’Connell |
Both teams finished with 25 personal fouls.
This means the foul totals were identical.
New Orleans attempted 38 free throws, compared with Philadelphia’s 33.
The Pelicans therefore had five more free-throw attempts, although Philadelphia converted a higher percentage of its attempts.
The game attracted 16,426 spectators at the Smoothie King Center.
The attendance figure reflects the number of people recorded for the contest and provides context for the home environment in which New Orleans secured its victory.
How to Read NBA Match Player Statistics Correctly
Understanding a basketball box score requires more than identifying the highest scorer.
Individual statistics should be considered alongside team totals, shooting efficiency, game situations, and the final result.
The February 22 matchup provides several useful examples.
Points
Points represent the total number of points a player scores.
A two-point field goal adds two points, a three-point field goal adds three, and a successful free throw adds one.
Maxey led this game with 27 points, making him the highest individual scorer.
However, New Orleans had three players reach 20 points or more.
This demonstrates why team scoring balance can be just as important as having the game’s leading scorer.
Rebounds
Rebounds are recorded when a player gains possession of the ball after a missed field-goal attempt or free throw.
There are two main categories:
- Offensive rebounds: recovered by the attacking team.
- Defensive rebounds: recovered by the defending team.
DeAndre Jordan led the matchup with 15 rebounds.
Andre Drummond led Philadelphia with 12.
Assists
An assist is credited when a pass directly leads to a successful field goal.
Williamson recorded eight assists, while Maxey recorded seven.
These figures highlight the playmaking responsibilities of both players.
Team assists provide additional information about how effectively an offense creates scoring opportunities through passing.
Steals
A steal occurs when a defensive player legally takes possession of the ball from an opponent.
Maxey recorded five steals, the highest individual total in this game.
Steals can create fast-break opportunities and disrupt an opponent’s offensive rhythm.
Blocks
A block occurs when a defensive player legally deflects an opponent’s shot attempt.
DeAndre Jordan led the matchup with four blocks.
Blocks are particularly relevant when evaluating interior defensive performance.
Turnovers
A turnover occurs when a team loses possession without completing a successful scoring attempt or otherwise retaining the ball.
Philadelphia recorded 10 turnovers, while New Orleans had 14.
The 76ers performed better in this category.
However, their advantage in ball security did not overcome the Pelicans’ superior shooting.
Plus/Minus
Plus/minus measures the difference between a team’s scoring and its opponent’s scoring while a particular player is on the court.
Williamson recorded +24, while Jabari Walker had Philadelphia’s highest figure at +5.
The statistic is useful for evaluating game impact, but it should be interpreted alongside other information rather than used as the only measure of player performance.
Statistical Lessons From the February 22 Matchup
This contest provides several useful lessons for readers who want to understand NBA performances beyond the final scoreboard.
A Better Season Record Does Not Guarantee a Win
Philadelphia entered the game with a 30-26 record.
New Orleans had a 16-42 record.
On paper, Philadelphia had the stronger season.
However, individual games are influenced by matchups, shooting performance, player contributions, and execution.
New Orleans demonstrated that a team with a weaker overall record can still produce a convincing victory.
Shooting Efficiency Can Be More Important Than Shooting Volume
Philadelphia attempted 94 field goals.
New Orleans attempted 81.
Despite taking fewer shots, the Pelicans made four more field goals.
The difference demonstrates why shot conversion should be considered alongside shooting volume.
Bench Scoring Can Change a Game
Jordan Poole led New Orleans with 23 points despite being listed as a bench player.
His performance shows how reserve players can provide substantial offensive value.
A strong bench contribution can help a team maintain its scoring level and create problems for an opposing defense.
One Strong Quarter Can Change the Entire Match
New Orleans scored 40 points in the third quarter.
That single period reversed the momentum and allowed the Pelicans to take control.
Quarter-by-quarter analysis is therefore important when studying how a team wins or loses.
Team Statistics Need to Be Evaluated Together
Philadelphia won the steals and offensive rebounding categories.
It also committed fewer turnovers.
Nevertheless, New Orleans won because it performed better in several high-impact areas, particularly field-goal shooting, three-point shooting, assists, and blocks.
This is why a complete box-score analysis is more useful than focusing on a single statistic.
Where to Find the Official Box Score and Match Information
Readers who want to examine the complete statistical record can use the ESPN game page.
The box score is useful for checking player-level information, team totals, and individual contributions.
The supplied game identifier is 401810667, which distinguishes this contest from other Philadelphia and New Orleans meetings.
For the most accurate review, the box score should be treated as the primary reference for individual player statistics.
You can examine the ESPN box score for the February 22, 2026 Philadelphia 76ers vs. New Orleans Pelicans game.
When comparing statistics from different sources, it is important to check that the game date and game ID match. This prevents confusion between the February 1 meeting and the February 22 rematch.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who won the New Orleans Pelicans vs 76ers game on February 22, 2026?
The New Orleans Pelicans defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 126-111 on February 22, 2026. New Orleans secured a 15-point victory at the Smoothie King Center in Louisiana.
2. Who was the leading scorer in the Pelicans vs 76ers matchup?
Tyrese Maxey was the game’s leading individual scorer with 27 points for Philadelphia. Jordan Poole led New Orleans with 23 points, followed by Zion Williamson with 21 and Saddiq Bey with 20.
3. How many points did Zion Williamson score against Philadelphia?
Zion Williamson scored 21 points. He also recorded eight assists and three steals, while finishing with the highest plus/minus among New Orleans players at +24.
4. How many rebounds did DeAndre Jordan record?
DeAndre Jordan recorded 15 rebounds for New Orleans. He also contributed four blocks, leading all players in both categories according to the supplied statistics.
5. What was the three-point shooting percentage for New Orleans?
New Orleans made 17 of 34 three-point attempts, finishing with a 50% three-point shooting percentage. Philadelphia made 12 of 46 attempts, recording 26%.
6. What was the season series result between the Pelicans and 76ers?
The 2025-26 season series finished tied 1-1. Philadelphia won the first meeting 124-114 on February 1, 2026, while New Orleans won the second meeting 126-111 on February 22, 2026.
Conclusion
The February 22, 2026 matchup between the New Orleans Pelicans and Philadelphia 76ers was decided by offensive efficiency, perimeter shooting, and a major second-half improvement from the home team.
Philadelphia started strongly and held an eight-point halftime advantage. However, New Orleans responded with 40 points in the third quarter and followed that performance with another productive final period.
Jordan Poole led the Pelicans with 23 points, while Zion Williamson contributed 21 points, eight assists, and three steals. Saddiq Bey added 20 points, and DeAndre Jordan dominated the rebounding and shot-blocking categories with 15 rebounds and four blocks.
Philadelphia also had several impressive individual performances. Tyrese Maxey scored a game-high 27 points, Kelly Oubre Jr. added 25, and Andre Drummond collected 12 rebounds.
However, the team shooting comparison explained much of the final result. New Orleans converted 49% of its field-goal attempts and 50% of its three-pointers. Philadelphia finished at 38% from the field and 26% from three-point range.
The Pelicans also recorded more assists, rebounds, and blocks, while Philadelphia finished with more steals, offensive rebounds, and fewer turnovers.
Ultimately, the new orleans pelicans vs 76ers match player stats show that New Orleans earned its 126-111 victory through a more efficient offensive performance and a decisive second-half response. The result also brought the season series to an even 1-1, giving both teams one victory from their two meetings.
