New Orleans Pelicans 107, Washington Wizards 106. The New Orleans Pelicans survived a tense, possession-by-possession finish to edge the Washington Wizards 107-106 in an NBA matchup on October 17, 2026. The game came down to the final seconds, with New Orleans making just enough plays on both ends to hold off a Washington team that refused to go away.

The one-point final score tells the story of a night defined by momentum swings, contested shots, and late-game execution. Neither team managed to build a comfortable lead for long, and the outcome remained uncertain until Washington’s final attempt failed to connect.

Match Overview

New Orleans controlled the early rhythm by attacking the paint and using its size to create second-chance opportunities. The Pelicans’ defense also made life difficult for Washington’s guards, contesting dribble penetration and forcing the Wizards into late-clock shots. But Washington stayed within reach by knocking down timely perimeter shots and competing on the glass.

The Wizards’ young core brought energy on both ends, turning defense into transition opportunities and keeping the Pelicans from pulling away. Every New Orleans run was met with a Washington response, often sparked by aggressive drives or offensive rebounds. The game had the feel of a matchup that would be decided in the final two minutes.

That is exactly what happened. New Orleans held a narrow lead late, but Washington had multiple chances to steal the game. In the end, the Pelicans’ poise and attention to detail on the final defensive possession made the difference.

Key Moments

• Fourth-quarter lead changes: The teams traded baskets down the stretch, with neither side able to create more than a one-possession cushion.
• New Orleans’ interior scoring: The Pelicans repeatedly went to the paint when they needed a bucket, drawing fouls and finishing through contact.
• Washington’s late push: The Wizards erased a small deficit with timely shooting and forced New Orleans to execute under pressure.
• Final possession: Washington got a look at the win, but New Orleans’ defense contested the attempt and secured the one-point result.

Tactical Story

New Orleans’ game plan centered on controlling the paint. The Pelicans used Zion Williamson as a physical downhill threat, forcing Washington’s defense to collapse and opening driving lanes for cutters and shooters. When Washington adjusted, New Orleans found success on the offensive glass and at the free-throw line.

Washington countered with speed and spacing. The Wizards pushed the ball after misses and used ball screens to create mismatches. Alex Sarr provided length and rim protection, while Bilal Coulibaly brought energy on the wing. Washington’s guards kept the offense moving, but the team’s half-court execution became less reliable as the game tightened.

The difference was New Orleans’ ability to generate quality looks late. The Pelicans did not settle for contested jumpers on every possession; they attacked the rim, drew contact, and made Washington defend deep into the clock. Defensively, New Orleans forced Washington into a difficult final shot, which proved to be the decisive moment.

Standout Players

Zion Williamson was central to New Orleans’ success, using his strength to finish around the basket and create opportunities for teammates. Trey Murphy III stretched the floor and knocked down important shots, while Dejounte Murray provided composure in the backcourt and helped steady the Pelicans during Washington’s runs. Herb Jones made key defensive plays, including late contests that disrupted Washington’s rhythm.

For Washington, CJ McCollum offered veteran shot-making and decision-making, keeping the Wizards in the game with timely buckets. Alex Sarr showed his defensive upside with blocks and altered shots, and Bilal Coulibaly brought energy in transition. Washington’s young players competed well, but the Wizards came up one possession short.

Season Impact

The Pelicans’ 107-106 win is the kind of narrow result that can build belief early in a campaign. New Orleans showed it can win when the game slows down and every possession matters, a valuable trait in the Western Conference. The Pelicans’ defense and interior scoring gave them a reliable foundation, even on a night when the offense was not always fluid.

Washington leaves with a frustrating loss but also positives to build on. The Wizards matched New Orleans for much of the night, forced a tense finish, and showed growth from