Porzingis contributes to Hawks win against Pelicans
On Wednesday, January 8, 2026, Latvian basketball player Kristaps Porzingis scored 13 points in the National Basketball Association (NBA) game, in which his Atlanta “Hawks” team defeated the New Orleans “Pelicans” at home with a score of 117:100. As the portal jauns.lv informs, Porzingis spent 22 minutes and 45 seconds on the court, demonstrating both his shooting abilities and his presence in defense. He made four of eight long-range shots and one of two free throws, but did not make a single 2-pointer. In addition to scoring, Porzingis contributed in other statistical categories as well, collecting three rebounds, two assists, one steal and one blocked shot. He also allowed two personal remarks.
The Hawks dominate the game
The Atlanta Hawks displayed a balanced offense in which several players made significant contributions. Zachary Reiser led the Hawks with 25 points, followed by Jalen Johnson with 19 points. Victor Krejci of the “Hawks” added 21 points, making seven of ten long shots.
The Pelicans are facing roster issues
The New Orleans Pelicans were without several key players due to injuries, including Trey Murphy, Herb Jones and Jose Alvarado. Those losses forced the team to change their starting lineup and rotation, which put them behind early in the game. Zion Williamson led the Pelicans with 22 points, while Jordan Poole scored 21 points.
The importance of the game and the position of the Hawks in the conference
The win was the Hawks’ 18th in 39 games this season, moving them into ninth place in the Eastern Conference. “Hawks” has stopped the streak of two losses and confidently demonstrates readiness to fight for higher positions. This game took place on the day it became known about the trade of the team’s biggest star, Trae Young, to the Washington Wizards.
Trae Young trade
Atlanta received veteran Sage McCollum and Corey Kispert in return. Porzingis played together with the second when the Latvian spent a little more than one season in Washington. The trade ends Young’s career as the face of the Hawks and sends the 27-year-old to his desired destination.
