The New Orleans Pelicans have been on a hot streak recently. They have dominated the month of March with an incredible 7-1 record. Zion Williamson and Co. were looking to extend their stance with another win tonight as they faced the Orlando Magic. Unfortunately, the Pelicans suffered a devastating blow during the game that hindered their chances of getting a win over Orlando.

New Orleans’ star player Brandon Ingram suffered a knee injury early in the third quarter and had to be carried to the locker room by his teammates. Ingram’s left knee buckled and got hyperextended while trying to stop Magic guard Jalen Suggs from driving to the basket. The Pelicans forward immediately fell to the floor, holding his knee in pain. The severity of Ingram’s injury presented initial uncertainty and the eventual decision to sit out.

Brandon Ingram scored 14 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists and stayed on the court for 21 minutes before incurring injuries. The instance proved a massive setback for the Pelicans, who had carried on a steady momentum so far into the season.

They were the 5th seed in a stacked Western Conference with a 42-26 record. Ingram has been a key reason for the Pelicans’ success this season, averaging 21 points, 5.8 assists, and 5.1 rebounds. If Ingram’s knee injury turns out to be serious, it could hinder New Orleans’ chances in the playoffs; considering the team’s run following the incident against Magic.

Pelicans fail their streak with Brandon Ingram’s setback

The Orlando Magic dominated the Pelicans in tonight’s game from the tip-off. Paolo Banchero and Co. took a 57-48 lead at the end of the first half. However, things went downhill for New Orleans after Brandon Ingram got injured in the third quarter. The Pelicans wavered under pressure as Orlando extended their lead to 20 points heading into the 4th quarter.

With Ingram’s exit, the Pelicans had brimming talent still available on the floor. One of the names on the list is Zion Williamson, who has been in elite form this season. Zion has showcased brilliance, averaging 22.7 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5 assists. CJ McCollum with 19.3 points per game and Jonas Valanciunas with 13.4 made the list later.

However, as soon as Orlando picked up the pace by the second quarter and carried it on with Ingram’s injury, the Pelicans crumbled indeed. Despite 8 turnovers from Zion, Magic dominated home turf to pull a stop on the Pelicans’ streak going 106-121.  Do you think Brandon Ingram’s injury played an essential role in the results?

Read More: “Destroyed Us”: Coach Ty Lue Bows Down to Zion Williamson After Season Defeat vs Pesky Pelicans