Pelicans Edge Mavericks 101-97 Behind Fears' 16 Points

Turning Point in the Fourth

The New Orleans Pelicans secured a 101-97 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at the American Airlines Center. The decisive shift occurred in the fourth quarter, where Dallas outscored New Orleans 34-26. Despite this late surge by the home team, the Pelicans held onto the lead to improve their record to 2-1, while the Mavericks fell to 1-2.

Attendance at the venue was 17,140.

First Half Momentum

New Orleans established early control, leading 24-18 after the first quarter. The Pelicans extended their advantage in the second quarter, finishing the half with a 55-45 lead. Jeremiah Fears was instrumental in the first half, contributing significantly to the scoring offense.

The Mavericks attempted to close the gap, but New Orleans maintained a consistent scoring rhythm. By the end of the second period, the visitor team had built a comfortable cushion that would define the rest of the game.

Third Quarter Stagnation

The third quarter saw a slowdown in scoring for both teams. New Orleans added 19 points, while Dallas managed 18. The Pelicans maintained their 10-point lead entering the final period.

Key contributions came from Derik Queen, who secured 11 rebounds for New Orleans, providing crucial board control. The Mavericks relied on P.J. Washington, who recorded 7 rebounds, and Sergio de Larrea, who dished out 6 assists.

The defensive intensity remained high, limiting second-chance opportunities for both squads.

Final Stretch and Records

In the fourth quarter, Tobi Lawal led the Mavericks with 16 points, while Fears also tallied 16 points for New Orleans. The Pelicans' balanced attack, including contributions from Derik Queen and other key players, proved decisive. The final score stood at 101 for New Orleans and 97 for Dallas.

This result leaves the Pelicans with a 2-1 record and the Mavericks with a 1-2 record as the season progresses.

Sources

ESPN