The New Orleans Pelicans defeated the Houston Rockets, 127-105, at Smoothie King Center on Thursday night.

The Pelicans (34-22) got a stiff challenge from the Rockets (24-31) early, leading to New Orleans emerging from the first quarter with a narrow 31-27 lead. However, the hosts stiffened up on defense in the second quarter while adding nine points to their advantage, and when they replicated the feat in the third period, they essentially sealed the victory. The Pels shot 52.1 percent while limiting Houston to 43.9 percent and forcing 22 turnovers.

Amen Thompson led the Rockets with 22 points, adding five rebounds, four assists and three blocks. Alperen Sengun delivered 20 points, nine rebounds, two assists and one steal. Cam Whitmore furnished 13 points, four rebounds and two blocks. Jalen Green supplied 10 points, four boards, two assists and one steal.

CJ McCollum paced the Pelicans with 28 points, complementing them with six rebounds and six assists. Zion Williamson generated a 27-point, 10-rebound double-double that included 10 assists, three rebounds, two steals and one block. Jonas Valanciunas contributed 20 points, 14 boards, three assists and one steal. Herbert Jones delivered 17 points, five rebounds, four assists and seven steals. Trey Murphy posted 13 points, three rebounds, one assist, three steals and three blocks. Jose Alvarado registered 11 points, seven assists, two rebounds, two blocks and one steal.

The Rockets return home to host the Phoenix Suns on Friday night, while the Pelicans host the Miami Heat on Friday night.