Brandon Ingram and Jonas Valanciunas lead the New Orleans Pelicans to a 105-98 victory over the Sacramento Kings in a play-in tournament, securing a spot in the NBA playoffs.

By the Numbers
  • Brandon Ingram scored 24 points.
  • Jonas Valanciunas contributed 19 points and 12 rebounds.
  • New Orleans improved to 8-5 this season without Zion Williamson in the lineup.
  • De'Aaron Fox scored 35 points for the Sacramento Kings.
Yes, But

New Orleans faced pressure in a do-or-die game after missing previous opportunities to secure a playoff spot.

State of Play
  • The Pelicans will open the playoffs as an eighth seed against top-seeded Oklahoma City on Sunday.
  • New Orleans became the first team to go 6-0 against an opponent in a season without a playoff series since 1994-95.
What's Next

The Pelicans will face top-seeded Oklahoma City in the playoffs on Sunday as the eighth seed.

Bottom Line

Brandon Ingram and Jonas Valanciunas propel the Pelicans into the playoffs with a crucial win, showcasing New Orleans' resilience in the absence of Zion Williamson.