2025-11-14 09:00
Walking through the Pelicans' latest box score feels like revisiting a blueprint of controlled chaos—the kind that wins games in the modern NBA. I’ve always believed that numbers tell stories, not just outcomes, and tonight’s stat sheet is no exception. At the heart of it all, Cabs Cabonilas delivered what I’d call a statement performance: 24 points, 15 rebounds, and five assists in just under 34 minutes. Those aren’t just empty stats; they’re the kind of efficient, all-around contributions that separate contenders from pretenders. Watching him operate in the pick-and-roll, you could see the intentionality—every move seemed purposeful, every pass crisp. His shooting splits hovered around 58% from the field, and honestly, that’s the efficiency you dream of from a primary option. When a guy puts up numbers like that without forcing the issue, it speaks volumes about his maturity and the system around him.
What stood out to me, though, was how Cabonilas’ dominance created opportunities for others. Liam Salangsang and Mico Pascual, his primary running mates in this one, chipped in with 12 and 11 points respectively. Neither had to carry the offensive load, but both capitalized on the attention Cabs drew. Salangsang’s mid-range jumper looked smooth—I counted at least three baskets coming off direct assists from Cabonilas. Pascual, on the other hand, did his damage in transition and with timely cuts. It’s the kind of complementary scoring that doesn’t always show up in headlines but absolutely wins games. I’ve seen teams where one star’s big night overshadows everyone else, but here, the synergy felt organic. The ball moved, players trusted each other, and the defense never quite knew where the next shot was coming from.
Rebounding was another area where the Pelicans imposed their will, and Cabonilas’ 15 boards—including what I’d estimate as 4 offensive rebounds—set the tone. In today’s pace-and-space league, securing extra possessions is everything. The team as a whole out-rebounded their opponents by 9, and that margin often translates directly to extra shot attempts and second-chance points. I’ve always been a stickler for rebounding effort; it’s one of those stats that reveals effort and focus. Here, the Pelicans didn’t just rebound—they attacked the glass with purpose, and it showed in transition opportunities and overall tempo control.
Then there’s the playmaking. Five assists might not jump off the page for a primary scorer, but in context, they were impactful. Cabonilas consistently made the right read, whether it was hitting cutters or finding shooters on the perimeter. I noticed at least two of those assists leading directly to three-pointers, which stretched the defense and opened driving lanes. It’s a reminder that scoring and facilitating aren’t mutually exclusive—when your best player is also a willing passer, the entire offense elevates. Compare that to some past games where ball movement stagnated, and the difference is night and day.
Defensively, the box score only tells part of the story, but the Pelicans’ activity was palpable. While blocks and steals weren’t gaudy—the team combined for just 3 steals and 2 blocks—their positioning and communication disrupted rhythm. I’d argue they forced at least 5 or 6 shot-clock violations, which you won’t find in traditional stats but matter immensely in grinding out wins. Cabonilas, in particular, showed improved defensive awareness, using his length to contest without fouling. It’s the kind of growth that stats sometimes miss but coaches and analysts notice immediately.
Stepping back, this performance underscores something I’ve felt for a while: the Pelicans are building something special. It’s not just about one player going off—it’s about how pieces fit together. Cabonilas flourishing as the centerpiece, supported by reliable contributors like Salangsang and Pascual, creates a balanced attack that’s tough to game-plan against. If they maintain this level of unselfishness and efficiency, I wouldn’t be surprised to see them climb the standings faster than many expect. The numbers back it up, but beyond the stats, there’s a cohesion and identity emerging—one that could make them a dark horse as the season progresses. For now, though, this box score serves as a snapshot of what’s possible when talent and teamwork align.
