Pelicans Dominate 76ers in Convincing Win
Saturday, February 21, 2026, 7:00 PM ET · Smoothie King Center
New Orleans Pelicans 126, Philadelphia 76ers 111, final. Today's NBA pick is already sealed, as a hash, before kickoff.
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Quick answers
Who won Philadelphia 76ers vs New Orleans Pelicans?
New Orleans Pelicans beat Philadelphia 76ers 126-111 at Smoothie King Center on February 21, 2026.
Who was favored in Philadelphia 76ers vs New Orleans Pelicans?
Philadelphia 76ers were the favorite at DraftKings, moneyline -170 (about 63% implied). The underdog won.
In a decisive matchup at the Smoothie King Center, the New Orleans Pelicans defeated the Philadelphia 76ers with a final score of 126 to 111. This victory not only showcased the Pelicans' ability to bounce back after a two-game losing streak but also marked a significant moment in their season, improving their home record to 17-42. The win ties the series between these two teams at 1-1 for the season.
The Pelicans entered this game with a recent home record of 4-6 over their last ten games, but they had been struggling, losing their last two contests. Their scoring average at home stood at 112.7 points per game, while they allowed an average of 114.3 points. In their previous game against the Milwaukee Bucks, they suffered a heavy defeat, losing 118-139. Despite these challenges, the Pelicans managed to turn the tide against the 76ers, demonstrating a more cohesive performance.
On the other hand, the Philadelphia 76ers came into this game with a record of 30-26, having gone 6-4 in their last ten games, but they were on a three-game losing streak. Their scoring average was slightly higher at 115.5 points per game, though they also allowed more points than they scored, averaging 116.6 points against. Their most recent loss was to the Atlanta Hawks, where they fell 107-117. The 76ers were looking to regain their form but were unable to do so against the Pelicans.
Historically, the Pelicans have had the upper hand in their recent matchups with the 76ers, winning two out of the last three meetings. Their last encounter on February 1, 2026, ended in a 114-124 loss for the Pelicans, but they had previously claimed victory in a home game on March 25, 2025, with a score of 112-99. This latest win at home adds to their confidence in the series.
In terms of injuries, the Pelicans had two players listed as day-to-day: Micah Peavy, who was resting, and Bryce McGowens, who was dealing with a toe issue. The 76ers also had Kentavious Caldwell-Pope listed as day-to-day due to a finger injury. The status of these players could have influenced the dynamics of the game, but the Pelicans managed to secure a comfortable win regardless.
The betting market, as provided by DraftKings, had the 76ers favored by 3.5 points, with a total set at 235.5 for the game. The odds reflected a competitive matchup, but the Pelicans' performance clearly exceeded expectations.
The game conditions at the Smoothie King Center were favorable for the Pelicans, who played with a sense of urgency and determination. They executed their game plan effectively, which was evident in their scoring plays. Key contributions came from players like Jordan Poole, who made a significant impact with a 27-foot three-point jumper, and Herbert Jones, who added to the score with a two-point shot in the fourth quarter.
As the game progressed, the Pelicans maintained control, leading comfortably as they entered the final quarter. The scoring plays highlighted their offensive prowess, with several players stepping up to contribute to the scoreline. The Pelicans' ability to capitalize on their opportunities and maintain a strong defensive presence ultimately led to their victory.
This match serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the NBA, where home-court advantage can play a crucial role in determining the outcome. The Pelicans' performance not only provided a much-needed win but also showcased their potential to compete against stronger teams in the league. As the season continues, both teams will look to improve their standings, but for now, the Pelicans can celebrate a well-earned victory over the 76ers.
Odds
| Book | Spread | Total | Moneyline |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | PHI -3.5 | 235.5 o -108 / u -112 | Philadelphia 76ers -170 · New Orleans Pelicans +142 |
Injury report
- Micah PeavyDay-To-DayRestNew Orleans Pelicans
- Bryce McGowensDay-To-DayToeNew Orleans Pelicans
- Kentavious Caldwell-PopeDay-To-DayFingerPhiladelphia 76ers
Leaders
- PointsJordan Poole23New Orleans Pelicans
- AssistsZion Williamson8New Orleans Pelicans
- ReboundsDeAndre Jordan15New Orleans Pelicans
- PointsTyrese Maxey27Philadelphia 76ers
- AssistsTyrese Maxey7Philadelphia 76ers
- ReboundsAndre Drummond12Philadelphia 76ers
Recent form
New Orleans Pelicans
Last 10: 4-6Streak L2112.7 scored · 114.3 allowed per game2-2 at home
- L118-139vs Milwaukee BucksFeb 21
- L111-123vs Miami HeatFeb 12
- W120-94vs Sacramento KingsFeb 10
- W119-115at Minnesota TimberwolvesFeb 7
- L137-141at Milwaukee BucksFeb 5
- L95-102at Charlotte HornetsFeb 2
- L114-124at Philadelphia 76ersFeb 1
- W114-106vs Memphis GrizzliesJan 31
- L95-104at Oklahoma City ThunderJan 28
- W104-95at San Antonio SpursJan 26
Philadelphia 76ers
Last 10: 6-4Streak L3115.5 scored · 116.6 allowed per game3-2 away
- L107-117vs Atlanta HawksFeb 20
- L89-138vs New York KnicksFeb 12
- L118-135at Portland Trail BlazersFeb 10
- W109-103at Phoenix SunsFeb 8
- L115-119at Los Angeles LakersFeb 6
- W113-94at Golden State WarriorsFeb 4
- W128-113at LA ClippersFeb 3
- W124-114vs New Orleans PelicansFeb 1
- W113-111vs Sacramento KingsJan 30
- W139-122vs Milwaukee BucksJan 28
Standings
| Team | Games behind | Lost | Streak | Win % | Won |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boston | - | 26 | W2 | .683 | 56 |
| New York | 3 | 29 | L1 | .646 | 53 |
| Toronto | 10 | 36 | W1 | .561 | 46 |
| Philadelphia | 11 | 37 | W2 | .549 | 45 |
| Brooklyn | 36 | 62 | L3 | .244 | 20 |
| San Antonio | - | 20 | L1 | .756 | 62 |
| Houston | 10 | 30 | W1 | .634 | 52 |
| New Orleans | 36 | 56 | L2 | .317 | 26 |
| Dallas | 36 | 56 | W1 | .317 | 26 |
| Memphis | 37 | 57 | L8 | .305 | 25 |
Box score
| Stat | Philadelphia 76ers | New Orleans Pelicans |
|---|---|---|
| Field goals | 36-94 | 40-81 |
| Field goal % | 38 | 49 |
| Three-pointers | 12-46 | 17-34 |
| Three-point % | 26 | 50 |
| Free throws | 27-33 | 29-38 |
| Free throw % | 82 | 76 |
| Rebounds | 47 | 49 |
| Offensive rebounds | 12 | 10 |
| Defensive rebounds | 35 | 39 |
| Assists | 19 | 25 |
| Steals | 10 | 5 |
| Blocks | 5 | 8 |
| Turnovers | 10 | 14 |
| Team turnovers | 1 | 1 |
| Technical fouls | 2 | 0 |
| Technical fouls, total | 2 | 0 |
| Flagrant fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Points off turnovers | 11 | 27 |
| Fast-break points | 17 | 26 |
| Points in the paint | 36 | 46 |
| Fouls | 25 | 25 |
| Largest lead | 11 | 21 |
| Lead changes | 9 | 9 |
| Time in front | 60 | 35 |
How the scoring went
- 3rd Quarter84-83Karlo Matkovic makes 1-foot dunk (Jordan Poole assists)
- 3rd Quarter84-84Karlo Matkovic makes free throw 1 of 1
- 3rd Quarter86-84Adem Bona makes dunk
- 3rd Quarter89-84Jabari Walker makes 23-foot three point jumper (Quentin Grimes assists)
- 3rd Quarter89-86Jordan Poole makes driving layup
- 3rd Quarter89-89Jordan Poole makes 24-foot running jump shot (Jeremiah Fears assists)
- 3rd Quarter89-90Jeremiah Fears makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter89-91Jeremiah Fears makes free throw 2 of 2
- 3rd Quarter89-94Karlo Matkovic makes 23-foot running jump shot (Jordan Poole assists)
- 3rd Quarter89-95Karlo Matkovic makes free throw 1 of 3
- 3rd Quarter89-96Karlo Matkovic makes free throw 2 of 3
- 3rd Quarter89-97Karlo Matkovic makes free throw 3 of 3
- 3rd Quarter90-97VJ Edgecombe makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter91-97VJ Edgecombe makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter91-98Jordan Poole makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter91-99Jordan Poole makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter93-99Andre Drummond makes tip shot
- 4th Quarter93-102Karlo Matkovic makes 24-foot three point jumper (Jeremiah Fears assists)
- 4th Quarter94-102Tyrese Maxey makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter95-102Tyrese Maxey makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter95-105Bryce McGowens makes 27-foot three point jumper (Jeremiah Fears assists)
- 4th Quarter97-105Tyrese Maxey makes driving layup
- 4th Quarter97-108Bryce McGowens makes 22-foot three point jumper (Jordan Poole assists)
- 4th Quarter97-110Jordan Poole makes 7-foot driving floating jump shot
- 4th Quarter97-112Herbert Jones makes dunk (Jordan Poole assists)
- 4th Quarter97-115Jordan Poole makes 26-foot three point step back jumpshot
- 4th Quarter99-115Tyrese Maxey makes 2-foot two point shot (VJ Edgecombe assists)
- 4th Quarter99-116Bryce McGowens makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter99-117Bryce McGowens makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter99-120Jordan Poole makes 26-foot running pullup jump shot
- 4th Quarter100-120Kelly Oubre Jr. makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter101-120Kelly Oubre Jr. makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter101-121DeAndre Jordan makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter103-121Tyrese Maxey makes 17-foot fade away jump shot (Adem Bona assists)
- 4th Quarter106-121Kelly Oubre Jr. makes 23-foot three point jumper (Quentin Grimes assists)
- 4th Quarter107-121Kelly Oubre Jr. makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter107-124Jordan Poole makes 27-foot three point jumper (Zion Williamson assists)
- 4th Quarter107-126Herbert Jones makes two point shot (Saddiq Bey assists)
- 4th Quarter109-126Cameron Payne makes 1-foot two point shot
- 4th Quarter111-126Justin Edwards makes 14-foot pullup jump shot (Cameron Payne assists)
Win probability
Above the line favours New Orleans Pelicans, below favours Philadelphia 76ers.
Venue
- Smoothie King CenterNew Orleans, LA
- Attendance16426
- OfficialsScott Foster, Danielle Scott, Pat O'Connell
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